Brussel Sprout Appetizer Recipes Vegetarian and Delicious

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap as a bitter or bland vegetable, but when prepared right, they transform into a delicious, crispy, and flavorful appetizer that even skeptics will love. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a healthy snack, or just craving a vegetarian bite, brussels sprout appetizers are a fantastic choice.

These little green gems are packed with nutrients, easy to cook, and incredibly versatile. From roasted bites with balsamic glaze to crispy fried delights, there’s an option to suit every palate.

In this post, we’re diving into some mouthwatering vegetarian brussels sprout appetizer recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Not only are these recipes simple to make, but they also highlight the natural sweetness and earthiness of the sprouts.

Ready to turn this humble vegetable into the star of your next gathering? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brussels sprout appetizers are a perfect combination of health and flavor. These recipes are:

• Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and equipment.
• Nutritious, packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
• Versatile, offering a range of flavors from tangy and sweet to smoky and spicy.
• Vegetarian and often vegan-friendly, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Perfect for entertaining, these bite-sized appetizers are great finger food for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (or honey for non-vegans)
• ¼ cup toasted pecans, chopped
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise (optional, for dipping)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Fresh lemon juice, for garnish
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Small saucepan (optional, for balsamic glaze)
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Cut each sprout in half lengthwise.
3. Toss the sprouts in olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and smoked paprika. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on the baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down. This helps them crisp up beautifully.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the edges are golden and crispy.
6. While the sprouts roast, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a serving bowl. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top and toss gently to coat.
8. Sprinkle with toasted pecans and dried cranberries for a burst of texture and sweetness.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
10. Serve warm with vegan mayonnaise or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For the crispiest Brussels sprouts, make sure they are dry before tossing with oil. Overcrowding the pan will steam them instead of roasting.”

• Add heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for a spicy kick.
• Nut-free option: Swap pecans for toasted pumpkin seeds or omit nuts altogether.
• Cheesy twist: Top with grated Parmesan or a vegan cheese alternative for extra richness.
• Make it finger food: Skewer roasted Brussels sprouts with toothpicks for easy party bites.
• Try different dressings: Swap the balsamic glaze with a lemon tahini dressing or a maple mustard sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These brussels sprout appetizers pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes and drinks. Consider serving them alongside a crisp white wine or a light sparkling beverage to balance the richness.

They also complement hearty main courses like roasted root vegetables or grain bowls.

For a full vegetarian meal, try pairing these appetizers with our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or add them to a vegan-friendly holiday spread with dishes from our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes collection.

More Delicious Brussels Sprout Appetizer Recipes

If you’re excited to explore more ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts, here are two more fantastic vegetarian appetizer ideas:

Crispy Brussels Sprout Chips

• Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, olive oil, sea salt, smoked paprika
• Instructions: Thinly slice Brussels sprouts, toss with olive oil and spices, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce.

Brussels Sprout and Goat Cheese Crostini

• Ingredients: Roasted Brussels sprouts, goat cheese, baguette slices, honey, walnuts
• Instructions: Toast baguette slices, spread goat cheese, top with chopped roasted Brussels sprouts, drizzle with honey and sprinkle walnuts. Serve immediately.

These recipes are simple yet elegant, perfect for impressing guests. For more inspiration on unique appetizers, check out our Halibut Dip Recipe for a seafood option or the Maple Bourbon Pickles Recipe for a flavorful pickle snack.

Conclusion

Vegetarian Brussels sprout appetizers are a fantastic way to elevate your appetizer game with minimal effort. Their natural flavor shines through when roasted to crispy perfection and paired with sweet and tangy accents like balsamic glaze and dried fruit.

These recipes offer a blend of textures and tastes that are sure to satisfy both vegetable lovers and skeptics alike.

Whether you’re preparing for a party, looking for a healthy snack, or want to add a fresh twist to your menu, these Brussels sprout appetizers are a reliable crowd-pleaser. Remember, the key is to roast them just right and complement them with flavorful toppings and garnishes.

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to explore our other recipes for more delicious ideas!

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