Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when prepared the right way, they can be a delicious and nutritious star of any meal. This Italian Brussels sprout recipe combines the earthy, slightly nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts with the robust zest of Italian seasonings.
Roasting the sprouts to a perfect golden crisp brings out their natural sweetness, while the addition of garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds layers of savory depth that will make even the most skeptical vegetable eater crave more.
Whether you’re looking for a tasty side dish to complement your pasta or a healthy snack to enjoy any time of day, this recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing taste.
Give it a try and discover why Italian-style Brussels sprouts are quickly becoming a household favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Brussels sprout recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It elevates humble Brussels sprouts with classic Italian ingredients like garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
The roasting method caramelizes the sprouts, making them tender on the inside with a crisp exterior. It’s a healthy side that pairs beautifully with just about any main course, from a rustic pasta to grilled chicken or seafood.
Plus, it’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and kitchen equipment.
Vegetarian and gluten-free, this dish appeals to a wide range of dietary preferences. If you love exploring new ways to enjoy veggies, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Microplane or fine grater (for lemon zest)
- Spatula or tongs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help caramelize the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Rinse and trim the ends, then slice each sprout in half from top to bottom. Larger sprouts can be quartered for even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure each sprout is evenly coated to ensure maximum flavor and crispness.
- Spread the sprouts in a single layer on your baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, as this will steam the sprouts instead of roasting them.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the sprouts are golden brown and crisp on the edges.
- Remove from the oven and immediately toss with fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. The acidity will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the hot Brussels sprouts. Toss lightly to let the cheese melt into the warm veggies.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
“For extra crunch, try adding toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top before serving.”
To add more Italian flair, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a touch of sweetness. If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Play around with herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary instead of Italian seasoning for a slightly different herbal note. For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, a pinch of smoked paprika can be added along with the other spices.
Want to make it a complete meal? Add cooked and sliced Italian sausage or crispy pancetta to the mix for a hearty protein boost.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Vitamin C | 90% DV |
| Vitamin K | 150% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Brussels sprout dish makes an excellent side to many Italian classics like pasta primavera or creamy risotto. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or steak.
For a lighter meal, toss them over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa with a drizzle of extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You can also serve them alongside crusty garlic bread for a satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Looking for more vibrant vegetable recipes? Check out our Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide or try the fresh and flavorful Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe for Easy Healthy Snacking.
Conclusion
Italian Brussels sprouts are a fantastic way to bring bold, fresh flavors to a vegetable that’s often overlooked. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick roasting method, you can transform these little green gems into a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
Whether you’re a Brussels sprout enthusiast or a newcomer looking to expand your veggie repertoire, this recipe offers an irresistible combination of crisp textures, savory garlic, and zesty lemon that’s sure to win over even the most discerning palates.
Give it a try today and enjoy a deliciously healthy addition to your culinary collection!
For more delicious and easy vegetable recipes, don’t miss our Veggie Rice Bowl Recipe for a Quick Healthy Meal and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.
📖 Recipe Card: Italian Brussels Sprout Recipe
Description: A flavorful Italian-style Brussels sprout dish with garlic, Parmesan, and balsamic vinegar. Perfect as a side or a light vegetarian meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes until crispy and browned, stirring halfway.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 12 g
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