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 Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pear Chutney
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). While it’s heating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which will help achieve a nice, crisp texture for your Brussels sprouts. Once the oven is ready, you’ll set the stage for the delicious flavors of Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved Brussels sprouts, sliced Bosc pears, and thinly sliced shallots. Add in fresh thyme sprigs, a generous pinch of sea salt, black ground pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Stir everything well to ensure each piece is coated evenly, enhancing the flavors in each bite.
Step 3: Roast the Mixture
Spread the coated Brussels sprouts, pears, and shallots evenly on the prepared sheet pan. Place them in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give the pan a gentle shake to promote even cooking and achieve that beautiful caramelization. You’ll know they’re done when the sprouts are golden and crispy on the outside, and the pears are tender.
Step 4: Add the Nuts
In the last 7-8 minutes of roasting, sprinkle roughly chopped hazelnuts or pecans over the vegetables. This will toast the nuts, adding an extra layer of crunch to your Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as they’ll brown quickly in the hot oven.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice
Once you’ve removed the baking sheet from the oven, discard the thyme sprigs to keep the dish clean and inviting. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the roasted mixture, which will brighten up the flavors of the dish. Gently toss everything together, allowing the lemon to infuse the roasted Brussels sprouts and pears.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Lastly, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your palate. Serve the Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney warm, garnished with additional fresh thyme for a beautifully inviting presentation. This delightful side dish will be a fantastic complement to any meal!
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pear Chutney
Fridge: Store leftover Brussels sprouts with pear chutney in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: Reheat from frozen or refrigerated at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving to refresh the flavors.
Re-seasoning: After reheating, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice to revive its fresh flavors.
Variations & Substitutions for Brussels Sprouts with Pear Chutney
Feel empowered to personalize your dish! By making a few simple swaps or additions, you can create your own flavor masterpiece.
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Apple Twist: Substitute Bosc pears with crisp apples for a refreshing crunch. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work beautifully!
Apples provide their own unique sweetness and tartness, making them a versatile alternative that keeps fall flavors alive. -
Nutty Alternatives: Opt for pecans instead of hazelnuts for a milder flavor. Walnuts are another great choice!
Toast them lightly before adding to the mix to enhance their rich, nutty essence, adding textured layers to each bite. -
Sweeten with Maple: Drizzle some pure maple syrup over your dish right after roasting for a delightful touch of sweetness.
This small addition transforms your Brussels sprouts and pears into an unforgettable dish, enhancing their caramelization beautifully. -
Herb Infusion: Swap out thyme for rosemary or sage to change the aromatic profile.
Both herbs bring their own distinct flavors, creating a unique and inviting aroma that will have everyone asking for the recipe! -
Add a Zing: Include a splash of balsamic vinegar to the roasted mixture right before serving for a tangy kick.
This addition elevates the overall flavor profile, bringing balance and brightness when combined with the sweetness of the pears. -
Vegan Version: Keep the dish completely vegan by ensuring your nuts are certified vegan and utilizing pure maple syrup for sweetness.
This way, everyone at the table can indulge guilt-free while enjoying those enticing fall flavors! -
Change the Texture: Pour in some cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier, grain-inclusive side dish.
Mixing in these grains not only adds staying power but also creates an exciting texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory notes. -
Spice it Up: For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the roasted mixture right before serving.
The heat plays off the sweetness of the pears, creating a harmonious balance that adventurous eaters will adore!
As you play with these variations, consider serving your creation alongside hearty options like Cozy Southern Cheese or a fresh salad to complete your fall-inspired meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pear and Thyme are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can trim and slice the Brussels sprouts and pears and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in advance, which helps to lock in their freshness. Additionally, you can mix the olive oil, salt, and pepper ahead of time to streamline your cooking process. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the prepared ingredients, roast them as instructed, and add the nuts in the last few minutes to ensure they stay crunchy. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful dish that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts with Pear Chutney
Uniform Size: Ensure all Brussels sprouts are cut to similar sizes for even roasting. This prevents some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
Taste Test: Adjust seasoning after roasting by tasting the dish. A little extra salt can enhance the flavors of the Brussels sprouts with pear chutney.
Nut Options: Don’t hesitate to swap hazelnuts with pecans or walnuts depending on your preference. Just remember to toast them lightly for the best flavor!
Fresh Herbs: While thyme shines in this recipe, feel free to mix in rosemary or sage for a more robust herbal flavor. It can transform your Brussels sprouts experience!
Sweet Gloss: For added sweetness, a drizzle of maple syrup right after roasting can elevate the dish and enrich its flavor profile.
What to Serve with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pear with Thyme
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that harmonize beautifully with this irresistible dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture complements the crispy sprouts, providing a comforting and hearty contrast.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these vibrant carrots offer a lovely balance to the savory Brussels sprouts while enhancing the autumnal flavors.
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Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy and fragrant, this main dish pairs wonderfully with the earthy thyme notes, making each bite a lovely combination of flavors.
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Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing option, this salad with nuts and dried fruits adds a crunchy texture and a burst of sweetness alongside the savory notes.
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Crispy Polenta Cakes: These golden cakes provide a delightful crunch, making a perfect foundation for the luscious roasted sprouts and sweet pear chutney.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: Effervescent and refreshing, this drink enhances the dish’s sweet-sour balance, tying together the fall flavors beautifully.
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Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake: For dessert, this creamy twist on a classic offers a sweet ending that mirrors the warm spices in the main dish.
Discover these pairings and prepare for a delightful feast that warms the heart and pleases the palate!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pear Chutney Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, vibrant green buds that are tightly packed. Avoid those with dark spots or yellowing leaves; they indicate overripeness. Fresh sprouts guarantee the best flavor and texture in your dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Very simply! Store any leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pear Chutney in an airtight container in your refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors intact, it’s best to reheat them only when you’re ready to enjoy the dish again.
Can I freeze Brussels sprouts with pear chutney?
For sure! To freeze, cool the dish completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before warming it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What if my Brussels sprouts are overcooked?
No worries! If you find they’ve become mushy, you can crisp them up in a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil for a few minutes. This might not restore their original crunch, but it will enhance their flavor and make them more appealing. Next time, keep an eye on the roasting time!
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Certainly! This dish is vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. However, if you’re serving it to guests with nut allergies, you can easily leave out the hazelnuts or pecans. Alternatively, you can substitute seeds or completely omit them for a safe option. Always check ingredients for those with specific dietary restrictions.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the Brussels sprouts and pears up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, ready to toss with oil and seasoning right before roasting. This will save you time on the day of your gathering and ensure a stress-free cooking experience!
Brussels Sprouts with White Balsamic Pear Chutney Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the halved Brussels sprouts, sliced pears, and shallots with thyme, sea salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
- Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway.
- In the last 7-8 minutes of roasting, sprinkle chopped nuts over the vegetables.
- Remove from the oven, discard thyme sprigs, drizzle with lemon juice, and gently toss.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme.
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