Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Apples, Pecans, and Pomegranate Seeds

Table of Contents

Ah, the delightful aroma of Brussels sprouts roasting in the oven! Let me take you back to a chilly autumn evening in my kitchen — the kind of night where the air is filled with the scent of baked apples and the crunch of pecans. I had just returned from the farmers’ market, my bags brimming with fresh produce, when I stumbled upon the idea of pairing the earthy bitterness of Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of apples and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. Once I added the pop of pomegranate seeds, this dish transformed into something magical. The vibrant colors and textures danced together on my plate, and I couldn’t resist serving it at my next dinner gathering.

Every bite brought a perfect symphony of flavors: the nutty, roasted notes of Brussels sprouts mingled with the juicy sweetness of apples, enhanced by the rich crunch of pecans and the fresh burst of pomegranate seeds. It’s cozy, it’s inviting, and trust me when I say it’s a dish everyone will adore! You’ll want to make it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Just toss and roast for an effortlessly sumptuous side dish!
• Healthy Goodness: Packed with vitamins and good-for-you ingredients.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, nutty, and slightly tart will tantalize your taste buds.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for dinner parties or family feasts; it’s a guaranteed hit.
• Seasonally Inspired: Embrace the flavors of fall and winter while enjoying a vibrant, wholesome dish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts. They’ll get beautifully caramelized in the oven!
• 2 medium Apples: Grab any sweet variety you love (Honeycrisp is a favorite)! They add a delightful sweetness.
• 1 cup Pecans (toasted): Toasting them brings out a wonderful nuttiness that complements the dish perfectly.
• 1 cup Pomegranate seeds: These little jewels add a pop of color and a burst of juicy flavor.
• 2 tbsp Olive oil: This helps everything roast beautifully while adding a rich taste!
• Salt (to taste): Just a pinch or two to enhance the flavors.
• Pepper (to taste): A dash of this adds a gentle warmth.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Preheating your oven is a crucial step! It ensures that your veggies roast perfectly, getting those lovely golden edges.

2. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts.

Grab your trusty knife and a cutting board! Trim off the stem end and slice them in half to allow them to crisp up nicely. You’ll see those luscious green layers.

3. Chop the apples into bite-sized pieces.

Core and chop your apples (no need to peel!). Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. The sweetness will melt into the Brussels sprouts in the oven.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine Brussels sprouts, apples, and olive oil.

Let’s mix it up! Combine your halved Brussels sprouts and apple chunks in a big ol’ bowl. Drizzle with olive oil for that rich, gorgeous goodness.

5. Season with salt and pepper and toss to coat.

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously onto the mix, then toss it all together. Get your hands in there; it’s the best way to coat everything evenly!

6. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.

Lay everything out on a baking sheet, giving room for the sprouts to breath and get crispy. The scent of roasting will soon begin to waft through your kitchen!

7. Remove from the oven and toss with pecans and pomegranate seeds before serving.

Once golden and tender, take it out of the oven. Sprinkle with toasted pecans and fresh pomegranate seeds for that final glorious touch. Serve warm and enjoy the smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Success

• For extra crispiness, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet!
• Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors.
• Make sure to store any leftovers properly in an airtight container.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning to make it your own.

Flavor Variations

• Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Spice Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth on those chilly evenings.
• Nut Substitutes: Walnuts or almonds work beautifully in place of pecans.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these savory-sweet Brussels sprouts with a hearty roast chicken, or they can shine on their own as a vegetarian main. Dish them up in a beautiful serving bowl, garnished with extra pomegranate seeds for a pop of color. For a celebratory beverage, a light, crisp white wine would be simply delightful!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prep the Brussels sprouts and apples a day in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish will last for about 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Leftovers

Got leftovers? Toss them into a warm grain bowl with quinoa or farro, or mix them into your morning omelet for a delightful breakfast surprise!

Freezing

While I recommend enjoying these fresh, you can freeze the roasted mixture. Make sure to use a freezer-safe bag, removing all the air, and they’ll last for up to 2 months!

Reheating

The best way to bring them back to life is in the oven! Pop them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) until warm. You can use a microwave, but let’s keep that delightful crisp texture, shall we?

FAQs

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts instead?
You certainly can, but fresh Brussels sprouts will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, no need to thaw; just adjust the cooking time.

What other nuts can I use?
Feel free to switch it up with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! A sprinkle of feta or goat cheese right before serving could add a wonderful creamy tang.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It can easily fit into your meal prep routine, making it a great, healthy side throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Cooking should always be an adventure filled with joy, and that’s just what these Oven Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Apples, Pecans, and Pomegranate Seeds bring to your table! It’s a recipe that not only satisfies the palate but also warms the heart. I hope you try this dish and feel inspired to share it with your loved ones. Happy cooking, my friend! Enjoy every delightful bite!