As autumn settles in, a delightful aroma wafts through my kitchen, marking the arrival of my favorite seasonal dish: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pears and Thyme. This vibrant recipe marries the crispy crunch of Brussels sprouts with the sweet caramelization of tender pears, creating a side dish that’s as inviting as it is flavorful. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also shines on the holiday table, making it a perfect fit for both cozy family dinners and festive feasts. With its tantalizing balance of sweet and savory, this vegetarian delight can easily cater to a variety of diets, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of fall. Curious how to turn simple ingredients into a stunning masterpiece? Let’s dive in and bring this elegant side to your next gathering!
Why Make Brussels Sprouts with Pear Chutney?
Unforgettable Flavors: The combination of crispy Brussels sprouts and sweet Bosc pears creates a tantalizing contrast that will impress your guests.
Autumn-Inspired: This dish celebrates fall with aromatic thyme and the warm, comforting essence of roasted seasonal ingredients.
Versatile Side: Perfect alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian spread during holiday meals, making it a crowd-pleaser for all dietary preferences.
Quick and Easy: With minimal effort, you can elevate your meals in just 30 minutes. No culinary expertise is required!
Nutritious Choice: Boasting fiber and vitamins, this dish pairs indulgence with health, offering approximately 316 calories per serving. Explore more seasonal recipes like Cozy Southern Cheese to keep fall flavors at the forefront!
Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney Ingredients
• Make your cooking experience fun and fulfilling with this delightful medley!
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels Sprouts – Trimmed and sliced in half; they’re the main attraction, offering a delightful crunch when roasted.
- Sea Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the sprouts; feel free to adjust to your taste!
- Black Ground Pepper – Adds a mild heat to balance the sweetness of the pears.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Tossed with the sprouts before roasting to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
For the Pear Chutney
- Bosc Pear – Cored and sliced; this sweet fruit caramelizes beautifully to create contrast with the sprouts. Substitute with apples for a twist!
- Large Shallot – Thinly sliced; it contributes an aromatic sweetness that enriches the dish.
- Thyme – Fresh sprigs; adds an earthy note that ties all ingredients together. Consider rosemary for a different flavor profile!
- Fresh Lemon Juice – A bright drizzle before serving enhances flavors and adds freshness.
- Hazelnuts or Pecans – Roughly chopped; these nuts bring a delightful crunch, but walnuts can be used as a substitute for another texture.
- White Balsamic Vinegar – The star for the chutney! It provides a sweet yet tangy finish that elevates the entire dish.
Feel free to explore variations to make this dish your own, such as adding maple syrup for an extra sweet touch!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This temperature is perfect for roasting, allowing the Brussels sprouts to get crispy while the pears caramelize beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts, sliced Bosc pears, and thinly sliced shallot together. Add fresh thyme sprigs, sea salt, black ground pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring each piece is coated evenly for optimal roasting.
Step 3: Arrange on the Sheet Pan
Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared sheet pan, making sure to leave space between the Brussels sprouts and pears. This spacing allows for even heat circulation while roasting, ensuring that the Brussels sprouts become crispy and the pears turn golden brown and tender.
Step 4: Roast the Vegetables
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give the pan a gentle shake or use a spatula to rotate the ingredients for even cooking. Look for the Brussels sprouts to be crispy and nicely browned, while the pears should be soft and caramelized.
Step 5: Add Nuts for Toasting
In the last 7-8 minutes of roasting, add the roughly chopped hazelnuts or pecans to the sheet pan. This will allow the nuts to toast and release their flavor, adding a delightful crunch to the finished Brussels sprouts with white balsamic pear chutney.
Step 6: Finalize and Serve
Once the vegetables are perfectly roasted, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Discard the thyme sprigs and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the roasted mixture, tossing gently to combine all the flavors. Adjust seasoning to your liking and serve warm, garnished with extra thyme for an inviting presentation.
How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a warm oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze cooked Brussels sprouts with white balsamic pear chutney in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven or a skillet rather than the microwave to maintain texture. If using the microwave, do so in short intervals while stirring occasionally.
Separation Tip: If possible, keep the nuts separate during storage to preserve their crunchiness until ready to serve.
Brussels Sprouts with Thyme Variations
Feel free to explore exciting twists on this comforting dish—tailor it to your taste buds and preferences!
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Apple Swap: Use sliced apples instead of pears for a tart-and-sweet contrast that brightens the dish.
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Nut Variation: Substitute pecans for hazelnuts to introduce a milder, buttery flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
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Herbal Twist: Experiment with fresh sage or rosemary in place of thyme for a different aromatic profile that adds depth.
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Maple Infusion: Drizzle a touch of maple syrup over the veggies after roasting for an extra layer of sweetness. It creates an appealing contrast to the savory Brussels sprouts.
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Add Spice: For those who enjoy heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes before roasting to give your dish an extra kick!
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Balsamic Glaze: Finish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction post-roasting for an elevated, tangy touch that pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors.
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Creamy Addition: Consider a dollop of goat cheese or feta crumbles on top before serving to introduce creaminess that enhances the texture.
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Quinoa Base: Serve your roasted veggies over a bed of fluffy quinoa for a wholesome and hearty meal. This simple addition transforms it into a filling main course!
By channeling your creativity, your Brussels sprouts dish can easily reflect your personal taste—let the flavors dance on your plate! For a delightful accompaniment, try serving with a side of Grilled Chicken Vinaigrette or complement it with the creaminess of Chicken White Wine.
What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pear with Thyme
Imagine the melting pot of flavors and textures that will make your dinner table sing! These delightful Brussels sprouts paired with sweet pears create a beautiful base for your meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture contrasts wonderfully with the crispy Brussels sprouts, creating a comforting balance.
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Quinoa Salad: Nutty and wholesome, quinoa adds a delightful chewiness while providing a nutritious boost to your meal.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots harmonize beautifully with the roasted pears, enhancing the overall autumn experience on your plate.
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Herb-Crusted Chicken: The savory notes from an herb-crusted chicken complement the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts, resulting in a well-rounded meal.
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Prosecco: This fizzy drink’s lightness and crispness echo the freshness of the dish while cutting through any richness.
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Honey-Drizzled Ricotta: A dollop of ricotta with honey brings a creamy sweetness that balances the savory elements, perfect as a pre-dinner snack.
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Whole Wheat Rolls: Soft and hearty rolls help to mop up the delicious flavors on your plate, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note; the warm baked apples and oats echo the dish’s fall flavors while satisfying your sweet tooth.
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Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with a citrus vinaigrette brightens up the meal and adds a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the roasted dish.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream to balance the warm spices of the meal, creating a delightful contrast to the savory elements.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pears with Thyme are perfect for meal prep! You can trim and slice the Brussels sprouts and core and slice the Bosc pears up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent browning. The shallots and thyme sprigs can also be prepared ahead of time. When ready to cook, simply toss all the prepped ingredients with olive oil, seasoning, and roast them, following the original directions. This simple make-ahead strategy saves you precious time on busy weeknights, ensuring you enjoy this delicious dish with ease!
Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney
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Uniform Sizing: Ensure Brussels sprouts are of similar size to guarantee even cooking; this avoids some being overcooked while others remain underdone.
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Perfectly Caramelized Pears: Aim to slice pears about 1/4″ thick so they caramelize beautifully without losing their shape during roasting.
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Fresh Thyme Substitute: If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme works, but use only one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
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Nut Varieties: While hazelnuts or pecans add crunch, walnuts could be an excellent substitute, offering a heartier texture to the Brussels sprouts mix.
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Adjusting Sweetness: For extra sweetness, drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the roasted vegetables just before serving, enhancing the overall flavor.
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Storage Strategy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat in a warm oven for about 10-15 minutes to preserve the crispy texture.
Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, vibrant green ones free from yellow or dark spots. The size matters too; opt for sprouts that are similar in size for even cooking. Freshness is key, so check for any signs of wilting or browning, which can indicate age.
How should I store leftovers of Brussels sprouts with white balsamic pear chutney?
To keep your delicious dish fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating in a warm oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to revive the crispy texture that makes these sprouts so delightful!
Can I freeze Brussels sprouts with white balsamic pear chutney?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze the cooked Brussels sprouts with pear chutney in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming. To reheat, place them in the oven or a skillet to maintain their texture. If using a microwave, warm them in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What if my Brussels sprouts are overcooked?
If your Brussels sprouts turn mushy, don’t worry! For a remedy, try adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar just before serving to brighten the flavor and compensate for any loss of texture. A sprinkle of crispy nuts can also help enhance the overall experience. Keep an eye on the roasting time next time, as Brussels sprouts are best when crispy but tender.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe is vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. However, it’s important to verify that any nuts you use haven’t been processed in facilities that might introduce gluten or other allergens. Enjoy these Brussels sprouts with white balsamic pear chutney as part of your balanced meal without worries!
What herbs can I use as substitutes for thyme?
If thyme isn’t your favorite, fresh rosemary is a delightful alternative! Simply use the same amount, or you can mix and match to find a combination that suits your palate. Using fresh vs. dried herbs makes a significant flavor impact, so adjust accordingly if you choose dried!
Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts, sliced pears, and shallot together. Add thyme, sea salt, pepper, and olive oil, mixing thoroughly.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared sheet pan, leaving space between the Brussels sprouts and pears.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. The Brussels sprouts should be crispy and brown; the pears should be soft and caramelized.
- In the last 7-8 minutes, add the chopped hazelnuts or pecans to the sheet pan.
- Once roasted, remove from oven, discard thyme sprigs, drizzle with lemon juice, toss gently, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
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