Overnight Zesty Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes the hassle out of cooking Brussels sprouts by marinating them overnight, allowing all the delicious flavors to soak in. With a simple marinade of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic salt, and paprika, these Brussels sprouts are infused with zesty, smoky goodness. Roasting them in the oven helps to bring out their natural sweetness while giving them a crispy, caramelized texture. The best part? You can easily prepare them ahead of time, making your mealtime stress-free and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Freshly cracked pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 pound Brussels sprouts (cut in half or quartered)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a gallon-size zip-top bag, combine the juice of 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon olive oil, freshly cracked pepper, paprika, and garlic salt.
2. Add the halved or quartered Brussels sprouts to the bag, seal it, and toss everything around until the Brussels sprouts are well coated.
3. Refrigerate the bag overnight to let the flavors marinate.
4. When you're ready to roast, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Spread the Brussels sprouts out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve and enjoy the crispy, zesty Brussels sprouts!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Total Time: 24 hours (includes marinating time)
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Add some sweetness: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the Brussels sprouts after roasting to add a touch of sweetness and complexity.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade if you enjoy a spicy bite.
• Cheesy goodness: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a cheesy, savory finish.
• Herbs: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an herbaceous twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a quicker option.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the Brussels sprouts?

For the best flavor, marinate the Brussels sprouts overnight. If you're short on time, aim for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the flavors to really soak in.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?

Fresh Brussels sprouts are recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, if using frozen Brussels sprouts, make sure to thaw and drain them well before marinating.

Can I use other vegetables instead of Brussels sprouts?

Yes! You can use this marinade for other vegetables such as cauliflower, carrots, or sweet potatoes. Just adjust the roasting time depending on the vegetable.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian. If you want to make it vegan, just ensure that your garlic salt and any other seasonings are free from animal-based ingredients.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to have enough room on your baking sheet for the Brussels sprouts to roast in a single layer for even cooking.

Can I skip the overnight marinating step?

While marinating overnight yields the best flavor, you can skip this step and roast the Brussels sprouts immediately after coating them with the marinade. They will still be tasty, though the flavor might not be as intense.

Should I cut the Brussels sprouts before roasting?

Yes, cutting the Brussels sprouts in half or quarters helps them cook more evenly and allows the marinade to penetrate the sprouts better, giving them more flavor.

Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil, but olive oil is the preferred choice for its mild flavor and health benefits.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Marinate the Brussels sprouts the night before, and roast them the next day for a hassle-free meal.

What if my Brussels sprouts are too bitter?

If you find Brussels sprouts bitter, try trimming the ends more carefully and removing any discolored outer leaves before marinating and roasting them. The marinade helps to reduce bitterness, but these tips can enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Overnight marinated Brussels sprouts are the perfect way to transform this vegetable into a flavor-packed side dish. The zesty lemon, savory garlic salt, and smoky paprika make these sprouts irresistible, and roasting them brings out their natural sweetness. Whether you're looking for a simple side dish or want to jazz up your veggie routine, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!