Crispy Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans: A Flavorful Delight

Crispy Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans is one of those recipes I eagerly anticipate each fall. With the changing leaves and cooler weather, I find myself craving comfort food that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Imagine sitting down to a warm plate of golden-brown Brussels sprouts, each bite bursting with flavor and a delightful crunch from the pecans. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of the season. I invite you to try this recipe and discover a new favorite way to enjoy these wholesome vegetables!

What Inspired This Recipe?

This recipe was born from a mix of necessity and creativity. I was preparing for a family gathering and wanted to showcase Brussels sprouts in a new light. Everyone knows the classic roasted Brussels sprouts, but I wanted something a bit different. While browsing through my pantry, I spotted a bag of pecans and immediately thought, “Why not add them for crunch?” This led me to sauté them carefully with shallots and garlic, which created a delicious aroma wafting through the house. When my family tasted the finished dish, the praises were endless! You can check out my favorite roasted Brussels sprouts recipe here for a more traditional approach.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

This Crispy Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans is not only simple but incredibly flavor-packed. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a delightful dish.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are a nutritional powerhouse. They are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. When sautéed, they develop a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside, which makes every bite delightful.

Pecans

Pecans add a richness to the dish, providing healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. They’re also an excellent source of magnesium and have heart-healthy properties. Toasting them as you cook enhances their natural flavor, making your dish even more delightful.

Shallots and Garlic

Shallots offer a mild sweetness that complements the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts beautifully. When sautéed with garlic, they create a fragrant, enticing base that elevates the entire dish. The combination of these ingredients rounds out the flavors, making it hard to resist going back for more!

This recipe is a fantastic side dish for any meal and pairs particularly well with my holiday thumbprint cookies when entertaining. The sweet and savory combination balances out beautifully.

Making Crispy Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, are you ready to dive into this delicious dish? I assure you that with just a few simple steps, you will have a stunning side that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients for our Crispy Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Quantity
Brussels sprouts	1 pound
Pecans, roughly chopped	1/2 cup
Shallots, sliced	2
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Salt	To taste
Pepper	To taste

Step 1

Start by trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts. Be sure to remove any wilted outer leaves. Cleaning the sprouts is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture, as they will absorb the seasonings beautifully.

Step 2

Next, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. This is where the magic begins. A well-heated pan will help achieve that perfect crisp on your sprouts. Once hot, add the sliced shallots and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, which should take around 1-2 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	12 minutes
Store	Up to 3 days in the refrigerator
Nutritional Values	Approximately 200 calories per serving

Step 3

Now, add the halved Brussels sprouts, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to coat them thoroughly in the olive oil, shallots, and garlic mixture. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook uncovered for about 10-12 minutes. This will allow the sprouts to become crispy outside while remaining tender inside.

In the last few minutes of cooking, toss in the chopped pecans and stir to let them toast lightly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning and to ensure they reach that delightful golden-brown color.

Now that you have all the steps laid out, it is time to serve your beautiful dish warm. I love to plate them attractively and watch as my family digs in, savoring every crunchy bite!

Variations & Serving Ideas

This recipe is fantastic on its own, but there are many creative ways to customize it! If you want to switch things up, consider these delicious ideas.

Use Different Nuts

If pecans aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap them for walnuts or almonds. Each nut will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Add Dried Fruit

For a hint of sweetness, try tossing in some dried cranberries or raisins during the last few minutes of cooking. This added component can enhance the overall flavor and give a beautiful pop of color.

Alternative Add-Ins	Notes
Balsamic glaze	Drizzle over the top for extra flavor
Parmesan cheese	Sprinkle on right before serving
Chili flakes	Add for a hint of heat

Pair with Main Dishes

These sautéed Brussels sprouts make a perfect side for a variety of main dishes. Consider serving them alongside grilled chicken or a vegan lentil wellington for a heart-warming meal. Also, they complement the flavors of a simple quinoa salad or creamy risotto beautifully. For more great main dish ideas, check my recipe for holiday thumbprint cookies.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, these Crispy Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Pecans are a simple yet elegant dish that brings warmth to any meal. The combination of crispy sprouts, toasty pecans, and aromatic shallots and garlic create a symphony of flavors that appeal to everyone. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe on your next family gathering or cozy dinner.

I cannot wait to see how you make this dish your own! Share your variations and experiences on my Pinterest page, where you can find endless inspiration for delicious meals: Visit my Pinterest.

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