A festive holiday side that dazzles the eye and palate
These pomegranate-glazed Brussels sprouts bring a vibrant pop of color and flavor to your holiday table. With a tangy-sweet glaze and crunchy toasted hazelnuts, they're the perfect balance of festive and comforting.
Looking for a side dish that's both show-stopping and easy to make? These roasted Brussels sprouts with pomegranate glaze deliver a festive flair for Christmas or Thanksgiving. The ruby-red glaze and golden hazelnuts create a stunning contrast that'll make your guests ooh and aah.
The tangy pomegranate molasses adds depth while the toasted hazelnuts provide a satisfying crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with prime rib, roasted turkey, or even a rich holiday pasta. Best of all, it's ready in under 45 minutes with minimal effort!
Whether you're hosting a large dinner or adding sparkle to a family gathering, these sprouts will elevate your menu. The vibrant red glaze and golden nuts create a festive look that's perfect for holiday photography too.
Ready to make your holiday table shine? Let's dive into what makes this recipe special.
Why This Recipe Works
Festive Presentation
The ruby-red glaze and golden hazelnuts create a show-stopping holiday dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Quick & Easy
Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal prep - perfect for busy holiday cooks.
Flavor Balance
Tangy pomegranate glaze complements the earthy Brussels sprouts and nutty hazelnuts for a perfect flavor harmony.
Versatile Pairing
Pairs beautifully with prime rib, turkey, or even a rich holiday pasta dish.
Pomegranate-Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe
A tangy, festive holiday side dish with toasted hazelnuts
Ingredients
- - 1½ lbs Brussels sprouts, halved
- - ¼ cup pomegranate molasses
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- - 1 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
- - 1 tsp honey
- - ½ tsp Dijon mustard
- - ½ tsp salt
- - ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Prep Brussels sprouts: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
💡 Use a rimmed baking sheet to contain the glaze
Roast sprouts: Roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized, shaking the pan occasionally.
💡 Check for doneness by piercing with a fork
Make glaze: Whisk together pomegranate molasses, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and 1 tbsp water.
💡 Adjust consistency with more water if needed
Glaze sprouts: Toss roasted sprouts with glaze until evenly coated. Return to oven for 5 minutes to caramelize.
💡 Toss gently to avoid breaking sprouts
Add nuts: Top with chopped hazelnuts before serving. Drizzle with extra glaze if desired.
💡 Toast hazelnuts in oven for 10 minutes at 350°F first
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Pomegranate Molasses
Provides the signature tangy-sweet flavor. Look for it in the international aisle or online.
Substitutions: Substitute with reduced balsamic glaze or a mix of 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar + 1 tbsp honey
Hazelnuts
Add a rich, nutty flavor and crunch. Toast them in the oven for maximum flavor.
Substitutions: Use pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds
Brussels Sprouts
Choose small to medium sprouts for best caramelization. Remove any yellow outer leaves.
Substitutions: Can use broccoli or cauliflower florets
Dijon Mustard
Adds a subtle tang that enhances the glaze. Can use whole-grain mustard for extra texture.
Substitutions: Substitute with ½ tsp apple cider vinegar
Pro Tips for Perfect Brussels Sprouts
Prep Like a Pro
Trim the stem end and remove any yellow outer leaves for even roasting. Use a mandoline for uniform halves.
Roasting Tips
Shake the pan every 5 minutes for even browning. For extra char, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
Glaze Secrets
Add a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the glaze for extra depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with pomegranate arils for extra color and crunch. Add a drizzle of extra glaze for shine.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Version
Use tamari instead of soy sauce (if adding) and ensure your mustard is gluten-free.
Vegan Version
Substitute honey with maple syrup and ensure your mustard is vegan-friendly.
Spicy Version
Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick that pairs well with rich meats.
Citrus Twist
Add ½ tsp orange zest to the glaze for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Prime Rib: The rich beef pairs beautifully with the tangy-sweet sprouts
- Roast Turkey: A classic holiday combination with vibrant color contrast
- Herb-Infused Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with rosemary complement the dish
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a crisp Chardonnay. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling apple cider or pomegranate iced tea.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the glaze up to 24 hours ahead. Store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The glaze will thicken in the fridge - reheat with a splash of water.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unglazed roasted sprouts for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding the glaze.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add extra glaze before serving.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
A: Yes, but thaw and pat dry first. They'll take about 5 minutes longer to roast.
Q: How to prevent soggy sprouts?
A: Use parchment paper for even heat distribution and don't overcrowd the baking sheet.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use two baking sheets to maintain proper airflow and avoid longer cooking times.
Q: How to salvage under-glazed sprouts?
A: Toss with additional glaze and return to oven for 2-3 minutes to caramelize.
Final Thoughts
These pomegranate-glazed Brussels sprouts are more than just a side dish - they're a holiday masterpiece that brings color, flavor, and festive cheer to any table. With their vibrant red glaze and crunchy hazelnuts, they're sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday meal.
Whether you're hosting a large dinner or adding sparkle to a family gathering, this recipe delivers both in taste and presentation. The best part? It's ready in under 45 minutes with minimal effort. So why wait for the holidays? Make these sprouts any time you want to bring a touch of festive magic to your meals.
