Name: Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 53 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb brussels sprouts; 3 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper; ¼ cup fresh parmesan

Grilled brussels sprouts make for a flavorful and healthy side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. With a smoky char from the grill and a hint of cheese from freshly grated parmesan, these are sure to be a hit at any meal.

Photos of Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe

If you don’t usually keep brussels sprouts at home, you’ll need to pick some up from the supermarket. Make sure to buy fresh ones, as they grill best. Also, fresh parmesan is a key ingredient here; pre-grated cheese won't melt as nicely on the grill.

Ingredients for Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Brussels sprouts: These small green vegetables are packed with nutrients and have a slightly bitter taste that mellows beautifully when grilled.

Olive oil: Used to coat the brussels sprouts, helping them to cook evenly and adding a rich flavor.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the brussels sprouts.

Pepper: Adds a bit of spice and complements the other seasonings.

Fresh parmesan: This cheese provides a nutty, salty finish that melts beautifully over the grilled sprouts.

One reader, Dorthy Luu says:

These grilled brussels sprouts are a game-changer! The parmesan adds a perfect touch of flavor, and the grilling gives them a delightful smoky taste. Quick and easy to make, they’re now a staple at our BBQs. Highly recommend!

Dorthy Luu

Cooking Techniques for Perfectly Grilled Brussels Sprouts

How to soak wooden skewers: Submerge wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. How to blanch brussels sprouts: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add brussels sprouts, and cook for 3 minutes. Then, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. How to thread brussels sprouts onto skewers: Carefully pierce each brussels sprout with a skewer, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking. How to grill brussels sprouts: Place the skewered brussels sprouts on a preheated grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until they are tender and have a nice char.

How To Make Grilled Brussels Sprouts

Here’s another side dish idea that’s perfect for your vegetarian guests. Brussels sprouts are simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 13 minutes

Soak Time: 30 minutes

Total: 53 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbbrussels sproutshalved if large
3tbspolive oil
salt and pepper
¼cupfresh parmesan

Instructions

Soak 6 wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes or more. Preheat grill to medium heat.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add brussels sprouts and cook for 3 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Place flat side down on a paper towel to drain completely.
Thread onto skewers, brush with oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Place on hot grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until cooked.

Nutrition

Calories: 117.13kcal
Fat: 8.59g
Saturated Fat: 2.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.86g
Carbohydrates: 7.14g
Fiber: 2.94g
Sugar: 1.71g
Protein: 4.80g
Cholesterol: 4.21mg
Sodium: 206.53mg
Calcium: 106.42mg
Potassium: 303.40mg
Iron: 1.17mg
Vitamin A: 41.63µg
Vitamin C: 64.26mg

Pro Tip for Achieving Crispy Grilled Brussels Sprouts

To ensure your brussels sprouts cook evenly and achieve a nice char, make sure they are all roughly the same size. If you have larger sprouts, consider cutting them in half. This will help them cook at the same rate and prevent some from being undercooked while others are overdone.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grilled Brussels Sprouts

Pre-cook in microwave: Instead of boiling, microwave brussels sprouts for 3 minutes to save time.

Use metal skewers: Skip soaking and use metal skewers to save 30 minutes.

Preheat grill early: Preheat the grill while prepping to avoid waiting.

Dry thoroughly: Pat brussels sprouts dry quickly with a clean kitchen towel instead of waiting for them to drain.

Grate parmesan ahead: Grate parmesan while the brussels sprouts are cooking to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe

brussels sprouts - Substitute with broccoli florets: Broccoli has a similar texture and can be grilled to achieve a comparable flavor profile.
brussels sprouts - Substitute with asparagus: Asparagus grills well and offers a slightly different but complementary taste.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a great alternative for grilling.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil also has a high smoke point and a light flavor, suitable for grilling vegetables.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar salty flavor but can add a bit more texture and mineral content.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger crystals and can enhance the flavor of grilled vegetables.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder peppery taste and can be used if you prefer a less intense flavor.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and can spice up the dish if you enjoy a kick.
fresh parmesan - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly saltier, sharper flavor.
fresh parmesan - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative.

How to Plate and Present Grilled Brussels Sprouts

Select the freshest ingredients: Choose vibrant green brussels sprouts with tight, compact leaves for the best flavor and presentation.
Uniform size for even cooking: Trim the brussels sprouts to ensure they are of similar size, allowing for even cooking and a uniform appearance on the plate.
Blanch and shock: Blanch the brussels sprouts in boiling water for 3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath. This preserves their bright green color and crisp texture.
Skewer presentation: Thread the brussels sprouts onto soaked wooden skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This not only aids in grilling but also adds a rustic, yet elegant touch to the presentation.
Season with finesse: Brush the brussels sprouts with olive oil and season with freshly ground salt and pepper. The simplicity of the seasoning allows the natural flavors to shine.
Grill marks for visual appeal: Grill the brussels sprouts until they have beautiful, charred grill marks. This adds a smoky flavor and an attractive visual contrast.
Plating with precision: Arrange the skewers on a pristine white plate, fanning them out slightly to create a visually appealing spread.
Garnish with fresh parmesan: Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan, allowing it to melt slightly over the hot brussels sprouts. This adds a touch of elegance and a burst of umami flavor.
Add a pop of color: Garnish the plate with a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve immediately: Ensure the dish is served hot to maintain the crisp texture of the brussels sprouts and the melted parmesan.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Grilled Brussels Sprouts

Wooden skewers: Used for threading the brussels sprouts to make them easier to handle on the grill.
Large pot: Needed to boil water and cook the brussels sprouts briefly before grilling.
Grill: The main cooking equipment to grill the brussels sprouts to perfection.
Tongs: Useful for turning the skewers on the grill to ensure even cooking.
Paper towels: Used to drain the brussels sprouts after boiling to remove excess water.
Basting brush: For brushing olive oil onto the brussels sprouts before grilling.
Colander: To drain the brussels sprouts after boiling.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the olive oil accurately.
Grater: For grating fresh parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the grilled brussels sprouts.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to place the brussels sprouts before threading them onto skewers.
Knife: To trim the ends of the brussels sprouts if needed.

Storing and Freezing Grilled Brussels Sprouts for Later

Let the grilled brussels sprouts cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
If you want to freeze the grilled brussels sprouts, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat the frozen brussels sprouts, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also reheat them directly from frozen, but it may take a few minutes longer.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid overcooking the brussels sprouts when reheating. A quick sauté or a brief stint in the oven should do the trick.
If you have leftover parmesan cheese, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, but the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled brussels sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil over the sprouts and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the leftover grilled brussels sprouts in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the sprouts from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to stir the sprouts halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have a little more time, consider sautéing your leftover grilled brussels sprouts in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sprouts and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly crispy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
For a unique twist, try incorporating your leftover grilled brussels sprouts into a delicious frittata or quiche. Simply chop the sprouts and add them to your favorite egg-based dish along with some shredded cheese and your choice of herbs and spices. Bake until golden brown and enjoy a satisfying meal that gives new life to your leftovers.

Interesting Trivia About Brussels Sprouts

A random fact about this grilled brussels sprouts recipe is that blanching the brussels sprouts before grilling helps to maintain their vibrant green color and ensures they cook evenly on the grill.

Is Making Grilled Brussels Sprouts at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled brussels sprouts recipe is quite cost-effective. With brussels sprouts priced around $3 per pound, olive oil costing approximately $0.50 for 3 tbsp, and fresh parmesan at about $1 for ¼ cup, the total cost is roughly $4.50. For a household of 4, this makes it an affordable side dish. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $4.50 USD.

Are Grilled Brussels Sprouts Healthy or Unhealthy?

This grilled brussels sprouts recipe is relatively healthy, as it incorporates nutrient-dense vegetables and uses minimal added fat. Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (particularly vitamin C and K), and antioxidants. Grilling the brussels sprouts can enhance their flavor while retaining most of their nutritional value. The addition of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, and the parmesan cheese offers a source of protein and calcium.

To further improve the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil to 2 tbsp to lower the overall calorie and fat content
Use a light sprinkle of parmesan cheese or opt for a lower-fat alternative, such as nutritional yeast, to decrease the saturated fat content
Experiment with additional seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika, to enhance flavor without relying on excessive salt
Serve the grilled brussels sprouts alongside lean proteins (e.g., grilled chicken or tofu) and other colorful vegetables to create a balanced, nutrient-rich meal
For a vegan option, simply omit the parmesan cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative

Editor's Opinion: Why I Love This Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe

This grilled Brussels sprouts recipe is a delightful way to elevate a simple vegetable. Parboiling the sprouts ensures they cook evenly on the grill, while the skewers make for easy handling and presentation. The olive oil, salt, and pepper enhance the natural flavors, and the fresh Parmesan adds a rich, savory finish. For an extra layer of complexity, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving. Overall, it's a straightforward yet sophisticated dish perfect for any barbecue or dinner party.

Enhance Your Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of roasted garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the smoky flavor of the grilled brussels sprouts, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes on your plate.

Citrus Quinoa Salad: Citrus Quinoa Salad: Brighten up your meal with a refreshing quinoa salad bursting with zesty citrus flavors. The nutty quinoa, combined with juicy segments of orange and grapefruit, will add a delightful contrast to the savory sprouts, making each bite a delightful adventure.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a luscious honey coating will bring a touch of sweetness to your appetizer. The caramelized edges and vibrant color will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful counterpoint to the grilled brussels sprouts.

Balsamic Glazed Portobello Mushrooms: Balsamic Glazed Portobello Mushrooms: Elevate your meal with the rich, umami flavors of portobello mushrooms marinated in a tangy balsamic glaze. These meaty mushrooms will add depth and complexity to your appetizer spread, making it a memorable culinary experience.

Apple Walnut Salad: Apple Walnut Salad: Crisp apples and crunchy walnuts tossed in a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing and textural contrast to the grilled brussels sprouts. The sweet and nutty flavors will enhance the overall taste profile, making it a delightful addition to your appetizer.

Similar Vegetable Side Dishes to Try

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze: Transform your brussels sprouts into a caramelized delight with a tangy balsamic glaze. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a side, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts With Bacon: Combine the earthy goodness of brussels sprouts with the smoky, savory taste of bacon. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.

Brussels Sprouts Caesar Salad: Elevate your salad game with this twist on the classic Caesar salad. Shredded brussels sprouts replace the usual romaine, adding a unique crunch and flavor.

Brussels Sprouts And Sweet Potato Hash: A hearty and nutritious breakfast or brunch option, this hash combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the robust flavor of brussels sprouts. Top it with a fried egg for an extra treat.

Brussels Sprouts And Quinoa Salad: For a light yet satisfying meal, try this quinoa salad packed with brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, and nuts. It's a perfect blend of textures and flavors, ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Grilled Brussels Sprouts

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. Marinate the chicken in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs to infuse it with vibrant flavors. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and tender result. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. This dish is perfect for a summer evening, offering a delightful balance of zest and savory goodness.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. Hollow out colorful bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices. Top with melted cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. This dish not only looks stunning but also provides a hearty and satisfying meal. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the experience.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of this decadent dessert. The chocolate lava cake combines a crispy outer layer with a gooey, warm core that will leave your taste buds craving more. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a sensational experience that is perfect for any occasion.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty freshness of a lemon meringue pie. This classic dessert features a tangy lemon filling topped with a light, fluffy meringue. The crust is buttery and flaky, providing the perfect base for the vibrant lemon curd. The meringue is toasted to perfection, adding a sweet, airy contrast to the tartness of the lemon filling. This dessert is a delightful way to end any meal.

Why trust this Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe:

This recipe ensures perfectly cooked brussels sprouts with a delightful char from the grill. The brief boiling step guarantees tenderness, while the olive oil and parmesan add rich flavor. Using skewers makes grilling easy and even. Trust this method for a delicious, healthy side dish that’s simple yet impressive.

Want to share your own twist on this Grilled Brussels Sprouts Recipe or discuss your experience making it? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I know when the brussels sprouts are done grilling?

You'll know the brussels sprouts are done when they have a nice char on the outside and are tender when pierced with a fork. They should be cooked through but still have a bit of bite to them.

Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?

Absolutely, you can use metal skewers. Just be careful as they can get very hot on the grill. No need to soak them like wooden skewers.

What can I use instead of parmesan cheese?

If you don't have parmesan, you can use other hard cheeses like pecorino romano or asiago. Even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

Do I have to boil the brussels sprouts before grilling?

Boiling the brussels sprouts for a few minutes helps to soften them up and ensures they cook evenly on the grill. If you skip this step, they might be too tough and take longer to cook through.

Can I add other seasonings or herbs?

Definitely! Feel free to add garlic powder, paprika, or even some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the olive oil before brushing it on the brussels sprouts. It’s a great way to customize the flavor to your liking.