Smashed Brussels sprouts are a delightful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. This simple recipe transforms ordinary Brussels sprouts into a crispy and flavorful side dish that everyone will love. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on your dinner table. The crispy edges and tender centers provide the perfect texture contrast, making these smashed Brussels sprouts hard to resist. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or as part of a weeknight meal, they add a touch of elegance and flavor to any occasion. Plus, you can easily customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. In this guide, you’ll learn all the steps needed to prepare these delicious smashed Brussels sprouts from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Smashed Brussels Sprouts

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

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Ingredients for Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Brussels Sprouts: Look for bright green, firm sprouts without any yellow leaves; around one pound is ideal for serving four people.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it enhances flavor while helping achieve that crispy texture.
• Salt and Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper and coarse sea salt amplify the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder adds depth; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps achieve that golden-brown crispiness on the outside.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove any outer leaves that look wilted. Rinse them under cold water to clean.

Step 3: Boil the Sprouts

Place the cleaned Brussels sprouts in a pot of boiling salted water for about 8-10 minutes until they are fork-tender but still firm.

Step 4: Smash the Sprouts

Remove the boiled sprouts from water and let them cool slightly. Place each sprout on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a flat object like a measuring cup or potato masher to gently smash each sprout until flattened.

Step 5: Season and Drizzle

Drizzle olive oil over each smashed sprout. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder according to your taste preference.

Step 6: Roast Until Crispy

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are nicely browned and crispy on the edges.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Crispy Texture: For extra crunch, consider broiling them for an additional minute after roasting
• Flavor Boosting: Experiment with toppings like Parmesan cheese or balsamic glaze before serving for added richness

How to Serve Smashed Brussels Sprouts

This Smashed Brussels Sprouts is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare Smashed Brussels Sprouts in advance by washing and trimming them a day prior. Store the prepared sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Storing: Leftover Smashed Brussels Sprouts should be placed in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them, where they will last for about two months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the sprouts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the stovetop over low heat while stirring occasionally to retain their texture.

Suggestions for Smashed Brussels Sprouts

Overcooking the Brussels Sprouts

One common mistake when preparing smashed Brussels sprouts is overcooking them. Overcooked sprouts lose their vibrant color and develop an unappealing mushy texture. To ensure you maintain that perfect balance of tenderness and firmness, steam or boil your Brussels sprouts just until they are fork-tender, typically around 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, immediately transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This method helps preserve their bright green hue and ensures they remain deliciously crunchy when smashed. Remember, your goal is to have sprouts that still hold their shape while being tender enough for easy smashing.

Skipping Seasoning

Another frequent error is neglecting to season the smashed Brussels sprouts adequately. Seasoning elevates the flavor profile of your dish significantly. Before you smash them, be sure to toss the cooked Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also experiment with garlic powder, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. After smashing, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added depth. Proper seasoning is key to transforming an ordinary side dish into a flavorful delight.

Not Using High Heat

Failing to use high heat when roasting your smashed Brussels sprouts can lead to subpar results. A hot oven helps to achieve that desirable crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Preheat your oven to at least 425°F (220°C) before placing the smashed sprouts in it. The high temperature will caramelize the outer edges beautifully, giving you that delightful crunch we all love. If your oven isn’t hot enough, you risk producing soggy or unevenly cooked sprouts. Ensure even spacing on your baking sheet for optimal roasting.

Forgetting About Toppings

Finally, overlooking toppings can diminish the overall appeal of your smashed Brussels sprouts. While they’re delicious on their own, adding thoughtful toppings can elevate them further. Consider incorporating toasted nuts like almonds or pecans for a nutty crunch or crumbled feta for a tangy punch. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives provide brightness and freshness that compliment the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts beautifully. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different textures and flavors; toppings can make a simple dish extraordinary.

FAQs

What are Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

Smashed Brussels sprouts are a creative twist on traditional roasted Brussels sprouts. The cooking method involves boiling or steaming the sprouts until tender and then smashing them down before roasting them in the oven until crispy. This technique allows for a delightful combination of textures—crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside. You can also customize your smashed Brussels sprouts by adding various seasonings and toppings, making them a versatile side dish suitable for any meal.

How do I store leftover Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

To store leftover smashed Brussels sprouts properly, allow them to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place them in an oven preheated at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy again. Avoid using a microwave as it may make them soggy instead of retaining their desired texture.

Can I make Smashed Brussels Sprouts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare smashed Brussels sprouts ahead of time by cooking and smashing them earlier in the day or even a day before serving. After boiling and smashing, store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to roast them just before serving time. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining guests while ensuring they maintain their flavor and texture when finally cooked.

What are some variations for Smashed Brussels Sprouts?

There are numerous ways to customize smashed Brussels sprouts based on your preferences! You can add different spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for unique flavor profiles. Incorporating ingredients like lemon zest gives a fresh touch while bacon bits lend savory depth. For those who enjoy more indulgent options, top with melted cheese or drizzle with truffle oil after roasting for luxurious flair. Explore various combinations that excite your taste buds!

Conclusion

In summary, mastering smashed Brussels sprouts involves avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking and forgetting essential seasonings and toppings. Utilizing high heat during roasting enhances texture while providing that irresistible crispiness we all desire. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and toppings; they can transform this simple vegetable into a memorable side dish that complements various meals beautifully. Whether served at family dinners or holiday gatherings, these deliciously crispy smashed Brussels sprouts will surely impress every palate!

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Smashed Brussels Sprouts

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• Author: Cecilia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Smashed Brussels Sprouts are a delightful twist on a classic vegetable dish, transforming ordinary Brussels sprouts into crispy, flavorful bites that everyone will love. Boiling them first ensures tenderness, while smashing and roasting gives you that irresistible crunch. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for customization based on your taste preferences, whether you want to add spices or toppings. With just a few ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder, and seasonings, you can elevate your dinner table with these vibrant sprouts that shine at any gathering. Perfect as a side or main dish, Smashed Brussels Sprouts bring both elegance and flavor to your meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and remove wilted leaves; rinse under cold water.
3. Boil the Brussels sprouts in salted water for 8-10 minutes until fork-tender.
4. Let cool slightly, then place on a lined baking sheet and smash each sprout with a flat object.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, experiment with toppings like Parmesan cheese or balsamic glaze before serving. Ensure even cooking by cutting the Brussels sprouts to similar sizes. For added crunch, broil for an additional minute after roasting.