Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans – A Flavorful Holiday Side Dish

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but when you pair them with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, they turn into an irresistible side dish! 🍂🧡 This Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans recipe is the perfect addition to your holiday meals or any festive gathering. With a balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight.

Let’s dive into this simple yet elegant recipe that’s bursting with flavor and nutrients! 🌟

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Sweet & Savory Combo – The tangy cranberries pair perfectly with the earthy Brussels sprouts.
✅ Loaded with Flavor – With pecans, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup, every bite is a flavor explosion!
✅ Great for the Holidays – A festive dish that complements any holiday spread.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

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🛒 Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Brussels sprouts side dish:

🥦 For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

🍒 For the Cranberries:

• ½ cup fresh or dried cranberries
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

🌰 For the Pecans:

• ⅓ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts for a twist)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional for extra richness)

🧴 For the Balsamic Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional for sweetness)

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💡 Substitutions & Variations:

✔️ Dried Cranberries – If fresh cranberries aren’t available, dried works just fine!
✔️ Nut-Free Option – Skip the pecans for a nut-free version and add sunflower seeds instead.
✔️ Vegan Version – Use olive oil instead of butter for a plant-based alternative.
✔️ Extra Sweetness – Add a splash more maple syrup to taste or drizzle some over the finished dish.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

🔥 Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2️⃣ Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Place them in a bowl.
3️⃣ Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat.
4️⃣ Spread them out evenly on a baking sheet, cut-side down for the best caramelization.
5️⃣ Roast for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

🍒 Step 2: Prepare the Cranberries

1️⃣ While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, heat maple syrup and cranberries in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Stir occasionally until the cranberries start to soften and the syrup thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
3️⃣ Add orange zest (optional) and stir well.

🌰 Step 3: Toast the Pecans

1️⃣ In a small skillet, melt butter (optional) over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add the chopped pecans and toast for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
3️⃣ Remove from heat and set aside.

🍽️ Step 4: Combine Everything

1️⃣ Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, remove them from the oven and transfer to a serving dish.
2️⃣ Drizzle with balsamic glaze (combine balsamic vinegar and maple syrup in a small bowl and whisk).
3️⃣ Add the cranberries and toasted pecans. Toss gently to combine, and serve!

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

These Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans are a versatile side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. Here are a few ideas:

• 🍗 With Roasted Chicken – The sweet and savory flavors are a perfect match for roasted meats.
• 🥩 With Steak – The earthy Brussels sprouts are a great contrast to the richness of a juicy steak.
• 🍖 With Pork Tenderloin – Add a festive touch to your pork dishes with this flavorful side.
• 🍚 On a Salad – Top a fresh green salad with these Brussels sprouts for added texture and flavor.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

📦 Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the Brussels sprouts.

🔥 Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but be careful not to overcook.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1️⃣ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the Brussels sprouts and toast the pecans a day before. Just assemble everything and drizzle the balsamic glaze just before serving.

2️⃣ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh Brussels sprouts are best for this recipe, but if you have frozen Brussels sprouts, make sure to thaw and drain them before roasting.

3️⃣ Can I substitute the maple syrup for something else?
Yes, honey or agave syrup will work great as a substitute.

4️⃣ Can I add bacon to this dish?
Definitely! Crispy bacon bits would add an extra layer of flavor. Just crumble it on top when serving.

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🧡 Conclusion – A Must-Try Festive Side Dish!

This Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans dish is the ultimate holiday side, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors. 🎉 Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite on your table.

The crispy roasted Brussels sprouts combined with the juicy cranberries and toasted pecans make for a side dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy! 🥗🌰 Give it a try and let me know how you enjoy this tasty recipe! 😋

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