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
- Braise them. Braising sprouts in flavor-filled liquids, like wine or stock, infuses them with a kick of flavor. It totally beats boiling.
- 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.
- Pair with bacon. Everything is better with bacon, including brussels sprouts. Cook the sprouts with bacon…or toss with cooked and crumbled bacon afterwards.
- Add vinaigrette. Toss sauteed brussels sprouts with vinaigrette (my fave is lemon vinaigrette) for an unexpected taste.