The moment you lay eyes on a Warm Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad, your mouth begins to water in anticipation. The crispy, golden breadcrumb topping paired with perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts carries forth a celestial aroma that dances in the air and invites you to dig in. And just wait until you slather on that creamy, tangy dressing—trust me, you’ll be dreaming about this salad long after the last bite.
Imagine serving this dazzling dish at a dinner party, where everyone marvels at how you transformed humble Brussels sprouts into a show-stopping centerpiece. Friends and family will gather around, indulging in the robust flavors while you bask in the glory of their compliments. It’s not just food; it’s an experience, making you wish you had doubled the recipe for those seconds that are bound to be requested.
Why You'll Love This Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
- This incredible Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad:
2 pounds Brussels sprouts – Trimmed and sliced to ¼-inch thickness, these little green gems are the star of the show, bringing a nutty, sweetness when roasted.
¼ cup unrefined cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil – Choose a high-quality olive oil for drizzling that enhances the flavor and helps roast those sprouts to perfection.
Sea salt – Essential for seasoning, this brings balance to the dish and highlights the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.
Freshly ground black pepper – A pinch of this elevates the dish, adding warmth and depth to the flavors.
6 Tablespoons mayonnaise – A creamy base for your dressing, turning it from ordinary to extraordinary with that luxurious mouthfeel.
2 Tablespoons water – This helps to thin out the dressing for an easy, drizzly consistency.
Juice from 1 lemon – A burst of acidity that brightens the dressing and complements the roasted sprouts beautifully.
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard – This provides a subtle tang, making your dressing both complex and delicious.
1 large clove garlic (or 2 medium cloves) – Minced, this adds a robust flavor that mingles perfectly with the creamy elements.
1 Tablespoon capers (or anchovies) – Both add a delightful umami kick, achieving that coveted Caesar flavor profile.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – An essential ingredient for deepening the umami flavor and tying all the elements together.
⅛ teaspoon sea salt (or more to taste) – For fine-tuning your dressing, ensuring it’s just right.
3 Tablespoons unrefined cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil – More good fat to coat your Brussels sprouts before roasting.
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (or plant butter) – For a rich flavor, it enhances the breadcrumb topping.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs – These crispy wonders will give the salad a delightful crunch.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – This enhances the roasted garlic flavor and is perfect in the breadcrumb mixture.
Sea salt as needed – For adjusting seasoning in the breadcrumbs.
4 ounces Parmesan – Shaved or grated, this classic cheese adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the entire salad.
How to Make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For those using convection, a temperature of 375°F will work perfectly. Line two half sheet pans with unbleached parchment paper for easy cleanup and crispier sprouts.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Arrange the trimmed and sliced Brussels sprouts on the prepared sheet pans. Drizzle them with extra-virgin olive oil, and sprinkle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper generously over them. Toss until they are well-coated, and spread them into an even layer.
Step 3: Roast the Sprouts
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 18 minutes, stirring halfway through for even cooking. You want them to be golden brown and tender on the edges, while still possessing a slight bite in the center. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the dressing.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a blender, combine mayonnaise, water, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, capers (or anchovies), Worcestershire sauce, and season with a touch of sea salt and black pepper. Blend until smooth, and adjust seasoning as needed. Set the dressing aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumbs
In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the unsalted butter along with the remaining extra-virgin olive oil. Once melted, add the panko breadcrumbs and stir constantly for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden brown. Mix in garlic powder and season with salt to taste before transferring them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, toss the roasted Brussels sprouts with the creamy dressing until every sprout is enrobed in that delicious sauce. Finally, sprinkle the crispy breadcrumbs and shaved Parmesan on top before serving. Voilà! You’ve just created a dish that’s both irresistible and elegant.
Serve this Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad warm, paired with your favorite protein or as a stand-alone dish. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and burst of flavors!
You Must Know About Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
- This showstopping Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad, start by preheating your oven for roasting while preparing the dressing. Roast the Brussels sprouts first, letting them cool slightly before tossing with the dressing and breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch to Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Feel free to experiment with your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad by swapping out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing or adding crispy bacon or grilled chicken for extra protein. You could even throw in some toasted nuts for a delightful crunch.
Storing & Reheating Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
Store any leftover Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at low heat, ensuring the Brussels sprouts don’t lose their delightful crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
- This professional-quality Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
When I first served this Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad at a family gathering, the delighted faces and second servings spoke volumes. My cousin even requested the recipe, claiming it was magic!
FAQs About Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
What is Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad?
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Caesar salad. Rather than the traditional romaine lettuce, this recipe features roasted Brussels sprouts, perfectly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness. Tossed in a creamy homemade dressing and topped with crispy breadcrumbs and shaved Parmesan, this salad offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that elevate any meal. It’s perfect as a side dish or a main course, especially for those looking to make their greens more exciting.
How do I make the dressing for Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad?
To prepare the dressing for your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, capers (or anchovies), Worcestershire sauce, water, sea salt, and black pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth, and taste to adjust seasoning as needed. This creamy dressing perfectly complements the roasted Brussels sprouts and adds richness to the salad, making each bite more enjoyable.
Can I make Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad ahead of time! Roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the dressing separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s best to toss the salad with breadcrumbs and dressing right before serving to maintain that delightful crunch and freshness, ensuring your salad tastes just as good as when it was first made.
What can I add to Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad for extra flavor?
For a twist that amps up the flavor of your Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad, consider adding crispy bacon for a savory kick or grilled chicken for additional protein. You could also toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a pleasant crunch. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can bring brightness, while sun-dried tomatoes can add a pop of color and tangy flavor. Feel free to get creative with your additions!
Conclusion for Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad
In summary, the Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad is a delicious and innovative dish that will impress anyone sitting at your dinner table. By roasting the Brussels sprouts and combining them with a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is packed with flavor and unique texture. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and ingredients to make this dish your own. Whether it’s for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this salad is sure to become a cherished favorite.
Warm Roasted Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400 F degrees or 375 F convection. Line two half sheet pans with unbleached parchment paper.
- Arrange Brussels sprouts on the prepared sheet pans. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread sprouts in an even layer. Roast in the oven for 18 minutes, stirring halfway. Cool just slightly.
- In the meantime, make the dressing by blending all dressing ingredients in a blender until smooth. Taste for seasoning and set aside.
- In a large skillet, over medium-low heat, add the butter and oil. Once the butter is melted, add the breadcrumbs and stir until golden, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder and taste for salt.
- Transfer the breadcrumbs to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and allow them to crisp as they cool. Once cool, store breadcrumbs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Toss the Brussels sprouts with the dressing and sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs and shaved Parmesan.
