Dress Up Your Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a holiday tradition for my family, but it wasn’t always that way. When I was growing up, we never ate brussels sprouts. Ever. My mom didn’t like them, so we just never had them. 

Fast forward to my 20s. I tasted brussels sprouts one Thanksgiving and discovered that I loved them. Since then, I’ve enjoyed them again and again in many different ways.

One thing I’ve discovered? With the right preparation, brussels sprouts can be amazing. In fact, with a little dressing up, even my mom has discovered a pleasure in them, too! 

4 Ways to Dress Up Brussels Sprouts 

1. Braise them. Braising sprouts in flavor-filled liquids, like wine or stock, infuses them with a kick of flavor. It totally beats boiling. 
2. Roast them. All it takes is a sprinkle of salt and pepper and a drizzle of good olive oil to prepare brussels sprouts in the oven. Once they are cooked, you can mix ’em with a little cheese or some balsamic vinegar. 
3. Pair with bacon. Everything is better with bacon, including brussels sprouts. Cook the sprouts with bacon…or toss with cooked and crumbled bacon afterwards. 
4. Add vinaigrette. Toss sauteed brussels sprouts with vinaigrette (my fave is lemon vinaigrette) for an unexpected taste.