The Crispy Brussels Sprouts That Turned Up the Heat and Won My Heart
Welcome, fellow food adventurers! Today, we’re diving deep into a recipe that transformed my relationship with a misunderstood veggie — the mighty Brussels sprout. These little green gems, often relegated to the ‘I’ll eat them if I have to’ category, have become a star on my dinner table. And it’s not just their nutritional benefits that win me over; it’s the bold flavors and crispy textures that make them a showstopper. Join me as we explore how to make Crispy Brussels Sprouts With Dijon Aioli, a dish guaranteed to ignite your taste buds and elevate your meals.
Why Brussels Sprouts?
You might be wondering, “Why Brussels sprouts, Marcus?” Well, let me tell you — these sprightly little spheres are a powerhouse of flavor and health benefits. Rich in vitamins C and K, they pack a serious nutritional punch. But it’s not just about health; it’s about the experience of cooking and savoring them. When roasted or air-fried to perfection, their natural sweetness emerges, complemented by a satisfying crunch that can make even the most skeptical eater a fan. Plus, when paired with a zesty Dijon aioli, they become utterly addictive.
All You Need Are a Few Simple Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
How to Make the Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of preparing these crispy Brussels sprouts. Trust me, it’s a straightforward process that will leave you feeling like a culinary wizard.
Steps:
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for achieving that crispy texture.
- Toss it up: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated. Don’t be shy with the olive oil; it helps them crisp up beautifully.
- Arrange and bake: Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. This step ensures even cooking. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them golden brown and crispy, so keep an eye on them!
- Whip up the Dijon Aioli: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, it’s time to prepare the aioli. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth and creamy.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oven and serve them warm alongside the zesty Dijon aioli. Dip away and experience the explosion of flavors!
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Brussels sprouts are the star of the show:
- Size matters: Try to choose Brussels sprouts that are similar in size for even cooking. If some are larger, cut them into quarters for uniformity.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give those little guys some breathing room on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, and we want that delightful crunch!
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices — a sprinkle of paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can add an extra kick!
Variations to Spice Things Up
While Crispy Brussels Sprouts With Dijon Aioli is a perfect dish as is, don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Honey Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle some honey balsamic reduction over the sprouts before serving for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy, savory finish.
- Spicy Sriracha Aioli: Kick the aioli up a notch by adding a teaspoon of sriracha for those who love heat!
Substitutions You Can Make
Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? No problem! Here are some easy substitutions:
- If you’re out of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a creamy base for the aioli.
- Don’t have Dijon mustard? Any mustard you have on hand will do; just adjust the quantity to your taste.
- For a dairy-free option, use a vegan mayonnaise in place of regular mayo.
Equipment You’ll Need
Before you dive in, make sure you have the right tools:
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for roasting your Brussels sprouts.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for tossing and a smaller one for mixing the aioli.
- Whisk: A simple whisk will make the aioli smooth and creamy.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked Brussels sprouts. Just blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes before freezing to preserve their color and texture.
FAQs
Can I make the Dijon aioli in advance?
Absolutely! The aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Brussels sprouts?
The best way to reheat them is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore their crispiness!
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked and crispy.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, friends! A recipe for Crispy Brussels Sprouts With Dijon Aioli that’s not only simple but also bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that celebrates the beauty of cooking with bold ingredients and invites everyone to the table. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a fun appetizer for game night, these sprouts are sure to impress.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab those Brussels sprouts, and let the sizzle of the skillet and the smell of roasting veggies fill your kitchen with warmth. Cooking is an adventure — and I can’t wait for you to take this one. Happy cooking, and remember: a dash of heat makes all the difference! For more delicious recipes, check out my other favorites like Joyful bites of bliss my favorite baked cranberry brie treats, Everyday delights my simple dinners that make healthy living a joy, and Nourish your soul the clean eating recipe that transformed my health. Enjoy!
Crispy Brussel Sprouts With Dijon Aioli - Dash of Mandi
Ingredients
Main
- 1 pound brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic to make aioli.
- Serve crispy Brussels sprouts warm with aioli on the side.
Notes
Nutrition
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