We love giving Brussel sprouts the spotlight they deserve, and our Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts recipe does just that. This simple dish transforms these often-overlooked veggies into a crunchy delight with the rich nutty flavor of toasted pine nuts making it irresistible.
It’s no secret we’ve perfected this easy side that’s both healthy and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or whipping up a quick meal pine nuts add a gourmet touch that elevates everyday ingredients.
Ingredients
In our Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts Recipe, we start with high-quality, fresh ingredients to create a crunchy, nutty side dish that elevates any meal. Below, we list them in the order they’re used, with prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- 1 pound Brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved (we recommend selecting firm, vibrant green sprouts for the best texture and flavor)
- ½ cup pine nuts, lightly toasted (we toast these first to release their rich, nutty aroma, enhancing the overall dish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra-virgin preferred (we use this to sauté, ensuring a golden, crispy finish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (we add this early for a fragrant base that infuses the sprouts)
- Juice of 1 lemon, freshly squeezed (we incorporate this toward the end for a bright, tangy contrast)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (we season generously to balance the earthiness of the sprouts and the richness of the pine nuts)
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts recipe to life, we need a few essential tools and equipment that ensure smooth preparation and optimal results. Building on the ingredients we’ve gathered, such as the fresh Brussel sprouts and toasted pine nuts, these items help us achieve that perfect crispy texture and nutty aroma.
Here’s a detailed list of the key tools we’ll use, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: We start with a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife to trim and halve the 1 pound of Brussel sprouts efficiently. This ensures even cooking and prevents any uneven browning.
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A 10- to 12-inch non-stick or stainless steel skillet is ideal for sautéing. It allows us to evenly heat the 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil and incorporate the minced garlic without sticking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our recipe’s balance. We recommend a set of measuring cups for the ½ cup of pine nuts and spoons for the lemon juice and seasonings.
- Spatula or Tongs: These are perfect for tossing and flipping the Brussel sprouts as they cook. A heat-resistant spatula helps us achieve that golden, crunchy finish while stirring in the pine nuts.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl comes in handy for combining the halved Brussel sprouts with oil and seasonings before cooking, ensuring even coating.
For quick reference, here’s a table summarizing the tools, their primary uses, and estimated costs based on standard kitchen items (prices are approximate and can vary by region):
| Tool | Primary Use | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Board | Trimming and halving Brussel sprouts | $10–$20 |
| Sharp Knife | Precise cutting | $15–$30 |
| Large Skillet | Sautéing ingredients | $20–$50 |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate measuring | $5–$15 |
| Spatula or Tongs | Stirring and flipping | $5–$10 |
| Mixing Bowl | Pre-mixing ingredients | $5–$15 |
With these tools in hand, we’re all set to move forward seamlessly in our recipe preparation.
Instructions
We walk you through the simple steps to create our flavorful Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts dish. Let’s transform fresh ingredients into a crispy, nutty delight that elevates any meal.
Prep
First, gather your ingredients as listed in our previous section. Start by rinsing 1 pound of Brussel sprouts under cold water to remove any dirt then pat them dry with a clean towel. Using a sharp knife on your cutting board, trim the stems and halve each sprout for even cooking—this ensures they crisp up perfectly with a satisfying crunch. Next, if your pine nuts aren’t toasted, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add ½ cup of pine nuts, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden and release a rich, nutty aroma that fills the kitchen. Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely to infuse a bold, fragrant base into the dish. Finally, squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into a small bowl and set aside for its bright, zesty contrast that balances the earthiness of the sprouts.
Cook
Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and coats the pan evenly. Add the halved Brussel sprouts to the skillet and spread them out for even browning—cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally with a spatula, until they develop a vibrant golden exterior and a tender yet firm texture that offers a delightful snap. Once the sprouts start to caramelize and emit a sweet, earthy scent, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to let it burn for the best flavor.
Assemble
Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the toasted pine nuts, stirring everything together to combine the nutty crunch with the crispy sprouts. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the mixture along with salt and pepper to taste, tossing gently for 1 minute to let the flavors meld into a harmonious, tangy finish. Remove from heat immediately—the dish is now ready to serve, showcasing glossy sprouts with a nutty highlight that adds gourmet appeal to your table.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts recipe even more convenient, we suggest preparing key components in advance. This approach saves time while preserving the dish’s crisp texture and nutty aroma, ensuring a quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.
Steps for Preparing Ahead
Follow these simple steps to streamline your cooking process:
- Trim and Halve the Brussel Sprouts: Start by rinsing 1 pound of fresh Brussel sprouts, then trim the stems and halve them. This can be done up to 2 days in advance. Store the prepared sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their vibrant green color and crunch.
- Toast the Pine Nuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast ½ cup of pine nuts for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. These can be prepared up to 1 week ahead and stored at room temperature, locking in their rich, nutty flavor for effortless addition later.
- Mince the Garlic: Finely mince 2 cloves of garlic and store it in a small, sealed container in the fridge. Prepare this step up to 24 hours in advance to keep its pungent aroma fresh and ready for sautéing.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to retaining the dish’s flavors. Here’s a quick guide:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trimmed Brussel Sprouts | Up to 2 days | Airtight container in fridge | Sauté directly from fridge for 5-7 minutes until heated through and golden. |
| Toasted Pine Nuts | Up to 1 week | Sealed bag at room temperature | No reheating needed; add straight to the dish for that signature crunch. |
| Mincd Garlic | Up to 24 hours | Small sealed container in fridge | Sauté in oil as per the main recipe to release its fragrant essence. |
By prepping these elements ahead, we ensure your Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts dish comes together in under 10 minutes, delivering a gourmet-worthy side that’s as delicious as it is efficient.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Brussel sprouts and pine nuts recipe, as it’s a simple way to turn humble ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s perfect for adding a nutritious twist to your table, whether you’re hosting or enjoying a quiet night in.
Give it a try and you’ll see how easy it is to create a dish that’s both flavorful and fresh—we’re confident it’ll become one of your go-to favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts recipe about?
This recipe transforms simple Brussel sprouts into a crunchy, flavorful side dish by pairing them with toasted pine nuts. It’s an easy, healthy option that adds a gourmet touch to any meal, perfect for dinner parties or quick dinners. The dish highlights the vegetable’s natural appeal with nutty and zesty flavors.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You’ll need 1 pound of fresh Brussel sprouts (trimmed and halved), ½ cup toasted pine nuts, 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, juice from 1 lemon, and salt and pepper to taste. These ingredients create a balanced, nutritious dish with a nutty aroma and bright contrast.
What tools are required to make this dish?
Essential tools include a cutting board and sharp knife for trimming, a large skillet for sautéing, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a spatula or tongs for tossing, and a mixing bowl for combining. These items ensure smooth preparation and are budget-friendly, with costs under $50 total.
How do I prepare Brussel Sprouts and Pine Nuts?
Start by rinsing and halving the Brussel sprouts. Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté the sprouts until golden, add minced garlic, then mix in toasted pine nuts and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. The whole process takes about 15-20 minutes for a delicious, gourmet result.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prep the Brussel sprouts by trimming and halving them, toast the pine nuts, and mince the garlic in advance. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for 5 minutes to maintain crunch and flavor, allowing assembly in under 10 minutes.
Why should I try this Brussel Sprouts recipe?
This recipe makes Brussel sprouts tasty and appealing, turning an overlooked veggie into a crunchy delight with nutty pine nuts. It’s healthy, easy to prepare, and adds a gourmet flair to meals, making it ideal for both everyday dinners and special occasions while boosting your vegetable intake.