Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will forever banish your childhood memories of bland, boiled Brussels sprouts. This sensational recipe transforms these humble vegetables into a gourmet masterpiece that combines crispy caramelization, sweet dates, and crunchy walnuts. Whether you're a vegetable skeptic or a culinary enthusiast, these Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Dates and Walnuts will revolutionize your dinner plate and leave your taste buds begging for more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/2 cup dates, chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by washing them thoroughly under cold water. Trim the stem ends and slice each sprout in half lengthwise, ensuring even cooking and creating a flat surface for caramelization.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to become hot but not smoking, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Place the halved Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the hot pan, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding. This will help achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior.
- Cook the Brussels sprouts without stirring for 5-6 minutes, allowing them to develop a deep caramelized color and crispy texture on the cut side.
- Gently flip the Brussels sprouts using tongs or a spatula, and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender and have a rich, golden-brown color.
- Add chopped walnuts to the pan and toast them for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and enhance their nutty flavor.
- Sprinkle chopped dates into the pan and stir to combine with the Brussels sprouts and walnuts, allowing the dates to warm and slightly caramelize.
- Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring even distribution of seasoning.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish, ensuring an even distribution of Brussels sprouts, dates, and walnuts.
- Serve immediately while warm, allowing the combination of crispy Brussels sprouts, sweet dates, and crunchy walnuts to be enjoyed at their peak flavor and texture.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Look for bright green, firm Brussels sprouts with tight, compact leaves. Avoid any with yellowing or loose outer leaves.
- Dry Is Key: After washing, thoroughly pat the Brussels sprouts dry. Excess moisture prevents proper caramelization and crispy edges.
- High Heat Magic: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet and ensure it's hot before adding sprouts. This creates the perfect golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook sprouts in a single layer to ensure even browning. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of sautéing.
- Timing Is Everything: Watch your heat and timing carefully. The goal is crispy exterior with a tender interior, not burnt or mushy sprouts.
- Nut Toasting Trick: Add walnuts towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and maximize their nutty flavor.
- Date Placement: Add chopped dates in the last minute of cooking to warm them without making them too soft.
- Seasoning Secret: Season generously with salt and pepper, and consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
