Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but this Air Fryer Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe is here to change minds. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze, these little green gems are a game-changer.
Using an air fryer, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in under 20 minutes with minimal effort. This dish is perfect as a side for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or even as a healthy snack. Plus, it’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet flavorful recipe that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, the air fryer makes cooking quick and mess-free, delivering crispy results without deep frying. The balsamic glaze adds a delightful balance of sweet and tart, elevating the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts. It’s also incredibly versatile—pair it with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or enjoy it solo as a low-calorie treat. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, it’s ideal for busy cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
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Ingredients
To make these delicious balsamic Brussels sprouts, you’ll need the following:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan)
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped pecans or almonds for crunch
Fresh Brussels sprouts work best, but frozen can be used in a pinch—just thaw and pat dry first. High-quality balsamic vinegar makes a difference, so opt for one with a rich, syrupy texture if possible.
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
You don’t need much to whip up this recipe, but here’s what you’ll use:
- Air Fryer: A 5-6 qt model works great for this recipe.
- Cutting Board: For trimming and halving the sprouts.
- Chef’s Knife: For precise cutting.
- Mixing Bowl: To toss the sprouts with the glaze.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning.
- Tongs: For flipping the sprouts in the air fryer.
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Recommended Air Fryer
For this recipe, I recommend the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer – 9-in-1 Versatility, Turbo Speed, 95% Less Oil!. It’s a powerhouse with features that make cooking effortless:
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This air fryer ensures your Brussels sprouts come out perfectly crispy every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Start by rinsing your Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim off the tough ends and remove any yellowed outer leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise using a chef’s knife. If some sprouts are much larger, quarter them for even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Balsamic Glaze
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp sea salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add the halved Brussels sprouts and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 2-3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Step 4: Air Fry the Brussels Sprouts
Place the coated Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, cut-side down if possible. Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket or using tongs to flip the sprouts halfway through. They’re done when the edges are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Add Optional Toppings
Transfer the cooked Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. If using, sprinkle with ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tbsp chopped pecans or almonds for extra flavor and crunch. Serve immediately.
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Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts
- Don’t Skip the Toss: Coating the sprouts evenly with the glaze is key to balanced flavor.
- Cut Uniformly: Halving or quartering ensures even cooking, preventing some pieces from burning while others stay raw.
- Check for Doneness: If your air fryer runs hot, check at 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Try crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings, without optional toppings):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fat: 7g (1g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 14g (5g fiber, 6g sugar)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Vitamin C: 85% of Daily Value
- Vitamin K: 180% of Daily Value
These Brussels sprouts are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great choice for weight management. For an extra boost, consider supplements like Moringa Actives, which supports metabolism and helps control hunger, or Fibre Select, a vital fiber that aids digestion and detox.
Pairing Suggestions
These Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Try them alongside:
- Grilled salmon with a lemon herb sauce.
- Roasted chicken breast seasoned with rosemary and thyme.
- A hearty quinoa salad with feta and cherry tomatoes.
- For dessert, a light Greek yogurt parfait with fresh berries.
For a keto-friendly meal, serve with a fatty cut like ribeye steak and consider NuviaLab Keto to support your ketogenic diet goals.
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Why Air Frying is a Healthy Choice
Air frying uses up to 95% less oil than traditional frying, making it a fantastic option for health-conscious cooks. The COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer enhances this benefit with its TurboBlaze technology, ensuring even cooking with minimal fat. Brussels sprouts, already rich in vitamins C and K, become a guilt-free indulgence when air-fried. To further support your wellness journey, try Keto Actives for weight loss or Lipid Control Plus to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Variations to Try
This recipe is endlessly customizable. Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the glaze for heat.
- Citrus Twist: Swap honey for orange juice and add zest for brightness.
- Savory Umami: Mix in 1 tsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- Nut-Free Crunch: Replace nuts with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe is proof that healthy eating can be delicious and effortless. With the magic of an air fryer and a few pantry staples, you can transform humble Brussels sprouts into a crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe delivers big on flavor and nutrition. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and pairings to make it your own.
For more air fryer inspiration, dive into the Air Fryer Cookbook: 600 Quick & Easy Recipes for Beginners and Pros. And if you’re in the market for a top-tier air fryer, the COSORI 6-Qt Air Fryer is a fantastic choice with its versatile functions and sleek design. Happy cooking!
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