Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, these lemon garlic roasted Brussels sprouts are a perfect everyday side dish. With just a handful of ingredients, they’re roasted to golden perfection, delivering a balance of tangy lemon and savory garlic. Nutritious, fiber-rich, and quick to prepare, they make a versatile companion to almost any meal.
Equipment
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 large baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper sheet (to prevent sticking)
- 1 Mixing bowl (optional, for tossing)
- Measuring spoons (for oil and seasonings)
Ingredients
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 medium lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Start by washing your Brussels sprouts thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, as excess moisture can prevent them from getting crispy. Trim off the tough, rough ends of each sprout using a sharp knife, and remove any outer leaves that appear wilted or damaged. Slice the remaining sprouts in half from top to bottom to ensure even roasting.
- Preheat the Oven for Roasting: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat fully. Preheating is crucial because it ensures the Brussels sprouts start roasting immediately, helping them develop that golden-brown, crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season with Olive Oil and Spices: Place the halved Brussels sprouts on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer to allow even heat distribution. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over all the sprouts. Sprinkle garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper on top. Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss the sprouts, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This helps maximize flavor and ensures even roasting.
- Add Fresh Lemon Zest and Juice: Squeeze the juice of one medium lemon over the seasoned Brussels sprouts. For extra brightness and a subtle citrus aroma, you can also grate a small amount of lemon zest and sprinkle it over the sprouts. Toss everything again lightly so that the lemon juice and zest coat each piece evenly, enhancing both flavor and aroma.
- Begin the Initial Roast: Place the baking sheet in the center of the preheated oven. Roast for about 10 minutes, allowing the sprouts to start caramelizing. During this stage, the heat begins to soften the inner leaves while the outer layers start to crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Flip for Even Browning: After the first 10 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven using oven mitts. Using a spatula or tongs, gently flip each Brussels sprout half so the other side can brown evenly. This step is key for achieving that signature golden-brown crisp on all sides, rather than just the bottom layer.
- Continue Roasting Until Crispy: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts reach your preferred level of crispiness. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are deep golden brown, the outer leaves are slightly caramelized, and they have a satisfying crunch when pierced with a fork.
- Adjust Seasonings Before Serving: Remove the roasted Brussels sprouts from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Taste a piece and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add a little extra lemon juice for brightness, or sprinkle a pinch more salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Serve Warm and Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm and crispy. These lemon garlic roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, from roasted chicken or fish to plant-based meals. They also work well as a healthy addition to grain bowls, salads, or meal prep containers for a quick weekday side.
Notes
- Choose fresh, firm Brussels sprouts with tightly packed leaves for the best texture and flavor. Avoid yellowing or soft sprouts.
- Drying the sprouts thoroughly before roasting is essential to achieve crisp edges; moisture prevents caramelization.
- Tossing the sprouts halfway through cooking ensures even browning and maximizes flavor.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste—adding it after roasting enhances brightness without making them soggy.
- This recipe is highly adaptable: add Parmesan, chili flakes, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.
