When it comes to transforming humble vegetables into culinary masterpieces, few ingredients shine as brightly as Brussels sprouts. Frequently enough misunderstood and overlooked, these compact little cabbages are bursting with flavor and nutritional power. In this article, we invite you to rediscover Brussels sprouts in a whole new light through the magic of grilling combined with a luscious balsamic glaze. The smoky char from the grill enhances their natural earthiness, while the sweet tang of the balsamic glaze creates a perfect balance, making each bite an irresistible dance of flavors. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, get ready to savor the flavor and elevate your veggie game with this simple yet sophisticated dish.
Grilled Brussels sprouts drizzled with a luscious balsamic glaze brings together vibrant textures and bold flavors in every bite. Mastering the art of perfectly grilling Brussels sprouts unlocks their natural sweetness while achieving an irresistible crispiness that complements the tangy-sweet magic of balsamic reduction. This dish not only elevates a humble vegetable but transforms it into a gourmet experience that’s both approachable and impressive for any occasion.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield
- Serves 4 as a side dish
Difficulty Level
- Easy
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Optional garnishes: toasted pine nuts, shaved Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Rinse and thoroughly dry the Brussels sprouts. Slice them in half lengthwise to expose more surface area, which is key to achieving maximum crispiness when grilled.
- Preheat your grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, about 400°F (205°C). A hot surface ensures a caramelized crust forms quickly, locking in flavor.
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper: In a large bowl, evenly coat the Brussels sprouts halves in olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances their natural flavor and aids in crisping.
- Grill the Brussels sprouts: Place Brussels sprouts cut side down on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes without moving them to develop a stunning char and crisp texture.Flip and cook an additional 4 minutes until tender but still firm inside.
- Make the balsamic glaze: In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce until thickened and syrupy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter for a velvety sheen.
- Glaze and serve: Transfer the grilled Brussels sprouts to a serving dish, drizzle generously with the warm balsamic glaze. Toss lightly to coat, ensuring every crispy edge is kissed by tangy-sweet flavor.
- Garnish creatively: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for crunch, shave Parmesan over the top for umami richness, and finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Success: Elevate Your Grilled brussels Sprouts Experience
- Choose uniform sprouts: Selecting Brussels sprouts of similar size ensures even cooking and consistent crispiness.
- Dry thoroughly: Moisture inhibits browning; pat dry with paper towels after washing for optimal grilling.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Maintain space between sprouts to allow airflow and prevent steaming.
- Watch for flare-ups: oil drip can cause flames.Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to gently control flames without lowering heat.
- Make-ahead glaze: Balsamic glaze can be prepared 2 days in advance, stored in the fridge, and gently rewarmed before serving.
- Customize your flavor: Try adding a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the olive oil for a smoky, spicy kick.
creative Serving Ideas to Impress with Every Bite
These grilled Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze make a stunning side for grilled meats like steak, chicken, or salmon.For a vegetarian main,toss them with warm quinoa or farro,feta cheese,toasted walnuts,and dried cranberries for a hearty grain bowl. To turn this into an appetizer, serve on a platter with crusty bread and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Don’t shy away from pairing this dish with a crisp white wine or light red to balance its sweetness and earthiness.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
discover more vegetable grilling techniques in our Ultimate Guide to Vegetable Grilling and learn about the health benefits of Brussels sprouts from Healthline.
Q&A
Q&A: Savor the Flavor – Grilled Brussels Sprouts with balsamic Glaze
Q1: Why choose Brussels sprouts for grilling?
A1: Brussels sprouts are a powerhouse of flavor and texture, and grilling transforms their natural bitterness into a smoky, caramelized delight. The high heat crisps the edges while keeping the inside tender, turning a humble vegetable into a star on your plate.
Q2: What makes balsamic glaze the perfect accompaniment?
A2: balsamic glaze adds a luscious tangy sweetness with a silky texture that beautifully balances the smoky, slightly bitter notes of grilled Brussels sprouts. Its concentrated syrupy richness acts like a flavor hug, elevating every bite to gourmet status.
Q3: How do you prepare Brussels sprouts for grilling?
A3: Start by trimming the stems and peeling away any tough outer leaves. Slice them in half to maximize surface area, which encourages even charring and caramelization. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper to ensure each piece is flavorful and primed for the grill.
Q4: Any tips for achieving the perfect char without burning?
A4: Absolutely! Use medium-high heat and keep the sprouts cut-side down initially to sear them thoroughly. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally. Watch closely and move sprouts around if your grill has hot spots to avoid turning them into crispy charcoal.
Q5: Can this recipe be adapted for indoor cooking?
A5: Definitely! If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or cast-iron skillet works wonderfully well. The key is to get a good sear on the sprouts – high heat, minimal flipping, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze at the end to mimic that signature outdoor grilled flavor.
Q6: What are some creative serving ideas for these grilled brussels sprouts?
A6: These sprouts shine as a side dish or a vibrant addition to grain bowls and salads.Sprinkle with toasted nuts or crumbled goat cheese to add texture and richness. For a heartier twist, pile them atop crusty bread with a smear of ricotta or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory appetizer.
Q7: Why should brussels sprouts make a regular appearance on our grills?
A7: As they’re delicious, nutritious, and versatile! Grilling unlocks their sweet, nutty potential, turning a vegetable frequently enough dreaded into a crowd-pleaser. Plus,pairing them with balsamic glaze is like giving your taste buds a gourmet vacation-fresh,bold,and unforgettable.Embrace the sizzle and savor every bite!
To Wrap It up
As the rich, tangy balsamic glaze drapes over each tender, smoky Brussels sprout, you’re reminded that even the simplest vegetables can transform into a culinary delight with just a touch of thoughtful preparation. Grilled Brussels sprouts offer a perfect balance of charred crispness and caramelized sweetness, making them an irresistible side or appetizer that invites you to savor every bite.Whether you’re seeking to elevate weeknight dinners or impress guests with a vibrant, flavorful dish, this recipe proves that bold flavors and wholesome ingredients can come together in harmony. So fire up the grill, embrace the adventure, and let these glazed green gems become a staple on your table-where flavor meets freshness in every mouthful.
