Brussels Sprouts with Feta

Brussels Sprouts with Feta are a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. These roasted brussels sprouts not only showcase the rich, cheesy flavor of feta but also come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for weeknight meals or special gatherings. The addition of a sweet balsamic glaze elevates the taste, making this dish both comforting and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of roasted brussels sprouts and baked feta creates a savory and cheesy delight.
• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for pairing with various main courses, from chicken to vegetarian options.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this recipe is a great way to enjoy vegetables without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: These brussels sprouts store well, making them ideal for meal prepping throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Brussels Sprouts with Feta, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (ceramic or sheet pan)
• Basting brush or spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, especially when roasting vegetables.
• Basting brush: This tool helps evenly distribute butter and oil over the brussels sprouts for maximum flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for easily trimming and halving the brussels sprouts without crushing them.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting, ensuring safety while preparing your ingredients.

Ingredients

To make your Brussels Sprouts with Feta, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 16 oz Brussels Sprouts
• 6 oz Feta Cheese (crumbled)
• 2 tbsp Balsamic Glaze
• 1 tbsp Salted Butter
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin)
• 1/2 tsp Seasoning Salt (contains garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, onion, and oregano)

How to Make Brussels Sprouts with Feta

Step 1: Trim the Brussels Sprouts

Begin by trimming your brussels sprouts. Cut off the bottom stem area and slice each sprout in half. Set them aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for roasting.

Step 3: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Choose your baking dish. A ceramic cast iron baking dish works well as it minimizes sticking. Alternatively, if using a sheet pan, line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 4: Mix Butter and Oil

Melt your butter and mix it with olive oil. Use a basting brush or spoon to add about half of this mixture to your baking dish evenly.

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese

Sprinkle an even layer of crumbled feta cheese over the butter mixture in your baking dish.

Step 6: Arrange Brussels Sprouts

Press each brussels sprout half onto the cheese layer. Ensure they are nestled in well; you can arrange them randomly or in neat rows if desired.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Butter Mixture

Using the basting brush again, drizzle the remaining butter mixture over the brussels sprouts. Evenly sprinkle seasoning salt on top for added flavor.

Step 8: Bake

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After baking, remove from the oven and let rest untouched for 5-10 minutes.

Step 9: Drizzle Glaze

As soon as you take them out of the oven, drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted brussels sprouts to enhance their sweetness. Enjoy!

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts with Feta

Serving Brussels sprouts with feta can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance this dish.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa: A fluffy grain that adds a nutty flavor and complements the savory feta.
• Brown Rice: This whole grain provides a hearty base for the brussels sprouts, making it a filling meal.
• Couscous: Quick and easy, couscous absorbs flavors well and pairs nicely with the balsamic glaze.

Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Tender chicken breast adds a juicy element that balances the richness of the feta.
• Roasted Turkey Breast: Lean turkey enhances the dish while providing additional protein.
• Lentils: For a plant-based option, lentils add bulk and a healthy dose of fiber.

Create a Salad

• Mixed Greens: Tossing the roasted brussels sprouts with fresh mixed greens gives a refreshing crunch.
• Spinach Salad: The earthiness of spinach pairs beautifully with the cheesy flavor of feta.

How to Perfect Brussels Sprouts with Feta

To make sure your Brussels sprouts with feta turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Preheat the Oven Properly: Ensuring your oven is fully heated to 400F before baking will help achieve crispy edges.
• Cut Evenly: Halve each brussels sprout uniformly so they cook at the same rate, ensuring even texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Allow space between each sprout in the baking dish to promote even roasting and browning.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh feta cheese enhances flavor; avoid pre-crumbled options for better results.

Best Side Dishes for Brussels Sprouts with Feta

Brussels sprouts with feta is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complete your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness.
2. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add color and balance the savory notes of the brussels sprouts.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli contributes additional nutrients while maintaining simplicity.
4. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light salad featuring herbs will complement the rich flavors of the dish without overpowering it.
5. Zucchini Noodles: These low-carb noodles offer a fresh, veggie-packed addition that lightens up your plate.
6. Cauliflower Rice: A great alternative for those looking for grain-free options, cauliflower rice is versatile and absorbs flavors well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in preparing your Brussels Sprouts with Feta.

• Not trimming properly: Failing to trim the bottom stem of the Brussels sprouts can result in tough and bitter bites. Always cut off the stem and slice them in half for even cooking.
• Ignoring oven preheating: Baking without preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your oven to 400°F for optimal results.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Piling too many Brussels sprouts into one dish can cause steaming instead of roasting. Give them space to ensure they become perfectly crispy.
• Skipping the butter mixture: Neglecting to coat the Brussels sprouts with the butter and olive oil mixture will result in dry sprouts. Ensure even coverage for flavor and moisture.
• Forgetting the glaze: Not adding balsamic glaze immediately after baking means missing out on a burst of flavor. Drizzle it on right after removing from the oven for maximum taste.
• Not letting them rest: Cutting into your Brussels sprouts right away can release steam and moisture. Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cool section of your refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Brussels Sprouts with Feta

• You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Brussels Sprouts with Feta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brussels Sprouts with Feta.

Can I use different cheese instead of feta?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if preferred. This will change the flavor profile slightly but still deliver a delicious dish.

How do I know when my Brussels sprouts are done?

Brussels sprouts are done when they are golden brown and tender inside. A fork should pierce through easily.

What should I serve with Brussels Sprouts with Feta?

These roasted Brussels sprouts pair well with grilled chicken, turkey, or a hearty grain salad for a balanced meal.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.

How do I store leftover Brussels Sprouts with Feta?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer preservation.

Final Thoughts

Brussels Sprouts with Feta is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors that can complement various meals. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables!