As the festive season draws near, so does the delightful chaos of Christmas feasts, filled with joy, vibrant decorations, heartfelt gifts, and—most importantly—plenty of mouthwatering food!
Traditionally, dinner tables overflow with a colorful medley of side dishes to complement the main course, whether you’re serving roasted meats or fresh seafood. Among the classics—like golden roasted potatoes, sweet carrots, caramelized onions, and savory broccoli—you’ll often find the polarizing Brussels sprouts.
Let’s be honest: most kids (and many adults) are less than thrilled by the thought of boiled Brussels sprouts. The typical preparation can leave them bland, unappealing, and with an aroma that’s far from appetizing.
But why settle for the ordinary when you can elevate tradition? This year, transform your holiday table with Parmesan-Crusted Brussels Sprouts: irresistibly crunchy, visually striking, packed with flavor, and destined to convert even the staunchest sprout skeptics!
Get ready to crown a new hero at your festive gathering—a dish so delectable, you’ll find yourself craving Brussels sprouts all year round!
IngredientsTry it with...
Preparation
for 4 servings
Step
1
Of 3
Begin by preparing the Brussels sprouts: peel away the tough outer leaves and trim off the woody stem at the base. Using a sharp paring knife, carve a shallow X into the top of each sprout—this classic technique helps ensure even cooking and allows flavors to penetrate deeply.
Step
2
Of 3
Place the prepped sprouts in a pot of vigorously boiling, salted water and blanch for about 10 minutes—just until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain thoroughly. In a large skillet, melt 30 grams of quality butter and toss in a clove of garlic for aromatic depth. Add the Brussels sprouts and sauté for 5 minutes to infuse them with rich, savory flavor.
Step
3
Of 3
Arrange the sautéed sprouts in a generously buttered baking dish. Dot with the remaining butter and blanket them with a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For a finishing touch, grind some fresh black pepper over the top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and crisp. Let the Brussels sprouts rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to mingle and textures to set. Serve hot and enjoy the transformation!
Try it with...
Filippo Bartolotta
...Great Italian Goodies!