Christmas Sprouts Recipe Vegetarian Ideas for Holiday Meals

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but during the holidays, they can truly shine as a delicious and festive side dish. This Christmas sprouts recipe is a vegetarian delight that will transform these little green gems into a caramelized, flavorful treat perfect for your holiday table.

Whether you’re a seasoned Brussels sprout lover or someone who’s never quite warmed up to them, this recipe brings out the best in their natural sweetness and texture.

Roasted to perfection with a touch of garlic, tangy balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of crunchy toasted walnuts, these sprouts are both hearty and elegant. They pair wonderfully with other festive dishes, making them an essential addition to your Christmas feast.

Plus, this recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for holiday entertaining. Let’s dive into how to make this cozy, vegetarian Christmas sprouts recipe your new holiday favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the classic flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts with holiday-inspired accents that elevate the dish to a festive level. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Simple Ingredients: Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find.
• Vegetarian & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Perfect Texture: Crispy edges and tender centers create a satisfying bite.
• Flavor Boost: Garlic, balsamic vinegar, and toasted walnuts add layers of flavor and crunch.
• Versatile: Great as a side for any holiday meal or a healthy snack on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Oven mitts
• Small skillet (for toasting walnuts)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will give the Brussels sprouts a lovely caramelization.
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Rinse them under cold water, trim off the tough ends, and slice each sprout in half lengthwise.
3. Toast the walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
4. Toss the sprouts: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss until the sprouts are evenly coated.
5. Spread on baking sheet: Arrange the sprouts cut side down in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them brown nicely.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes: Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Shake the pan or flip the sprouts halfway through for even cooking.
7. Add balsamic and maple syrup: Remove the sprouts from the oven, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup (if using), then toss gently to coat.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle toasted walnuts, lemon zest, and chopped fresh parsley over the sprouts. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes before roasting or tossing in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving if you’re not strictly vegan.”

• Make it vegan: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Add dried cranberries: Stir in a handful for a sweet and tart contrast.
• Use pecans or almonds: Substitute walnuts with other nuts for different textures and flavors.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky kick.
• Herb variations: Swap parsley for thyme or rosemary for a different festive aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Christmas sprouts recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. For a full holiday spread, serve alongside a savory mushroom Wellington or a hearty lentil loaf.

Try pairing it with:

• Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a colorful veggie medley.
• Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for non-vegetarian guests who want a comforting classic.
• Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy, spicy bite to your holiday appetizer table.

Conclusion

This Christmas sprouts recipe is a delightful way to bring Brussels sprouts to the center of your holiday meals. Its combination of roasted caramelization, garlic warmth, tangy balsamic, and crunchy walnuts makes it a crowd-pleaser for vegetarians and omnivores alike.

Plus, it’s packed with nutrients that add a healthy boost to your festive feast.

Whether you’re looking for a new vegetable side or a flavorful dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers both simplicity and sophistication. Give it a try this holiday season and watch Brussels sprouts become a beloved Christmas tradition on your table.

Don’t forget to explore other wonderful recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for more festive inspiration!

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