Prepare to transform the often-maligned Brussels sprout into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Cranberry Orange Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is a game-changing side dish that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and caramelized flavors. Imagine crispy, golden-brown sprouts studded with burst cranberries and infused with bright citrusy notes - this is not your grandmother's boring vegetable side, but a show-stopping dish that will revolutionize how you think about Brussels sprouts forever.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even roasting.
- Wash the Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold running water, then pat them dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to ensure proper roasting.
- Trim the stem ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, creating a flat surface for caramelization.
- Zest the entire orange using a microplane or fine grater, then juice the orange, collecting the fresh juice in a small bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine halved Brussels sprouts, fresh cranberries, orange zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss ingredients thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet, ensuring sprouts are not overcrowded to promote proper roasting and caramelization.
- Drizzle the fresh orange juice over the Brussels sprouts and cranberry mixture before placing in the preheated oven.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking time, until Brussels sprouts are golden brown and crispy on the edges and cranberries have slightly burst.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving dish and taste, adjusting seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Tips
- Ensure your Brussels sprouts are completely dry before roasting - moisture is the enemy of crispy caramelization!
- Use a large, rimmed baking sheet and don't overcrowd the vegetables. This allows them to roast, not steam.
- Cut Brussels sprouts in half to maximize crispy edges and expose more surface area to heat.
- For extra crispiness, consider using a high-quality olive oil with a high smoke point.
- Stir the sprouts halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and prevent burning.
- Fresh cranberries are key - they'll burst and create little pockets of tangy sweetness during roasting.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld and cool slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving for the perfect flavor balance.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
