Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Pomegranate Molasses Dressing

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a classic dish served along many holiday meals. They can be eaten with a Christmas prime rib, Thanksgiving turkey, or even as part of a healthy dinner before all the Halloween candy sets in. These vegetables are fresh, green, and nutritious, making them an excellent healthy side dish on a table full of rich foods. The bright and vibrant red and green colors of the pomegranate and Brussels sprouts will also be beautiful for a holiday spread. 

While they are super healthy for you, they also taste delicious! If you don’t like it, I can guarantee it is because you have never tried the right recipe. My roasted Brussels sprouts with pomegranate molasses dressing is a bit sour from the pomegranate and salty from the feta cheese. The combination of flavors reduces the bitterness and makes them taste amazing to even the most extensive vegetable critics! This recipe makes the most delicious soft yet crispy Brussels sprouts.  

Are Brussels Sprouts Good For You? 

Yes! They are cruciferous vegetables that have many health benefits. They are rich in fiber and have plenty of vitamins and minerals. This vegetable has a high vitamin K, which is good for bone health and prevents clotting. It is also high in Vitamin C, which promotes iron absorption. So, there is no doubt that this vegetable is incredibly healthy. These nutrients also help prevent high blood pressure and heart disease, and they also have carotenoids, which are good for your eyes. 

Why Do Brussels Sprouts Taste Bitter?

These are a famously bitter vegetable. In fact, nearly everyone has heard someone at some point say, “awww  Brussels sprouts.” This bitterness is due to a chemical compound called glycosylates. Vegetables such as broccoli, kale, and cabbage all have this chemical, making them slightly bitter. Over the years, farmers have found a way to create fewer glycosylates in their vegetables, making them much less bitter than they used to be. 

How to Make Brussels Sprouts Less Bitter?

If you still don’t love the taste of this vegetable, you can modify your recipe to mask the taste. My recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of olive oil. Fats such as olive oil are perfect at reducing bitterness. Baking the them will also caramelize and soften the it, making them less bitter. 

Can You Make this dish in the Air Fryer? 

Yes, you can easily make Brussels sprouts in the air fryer by cooking them at 375 degrees for about 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket every 5 minutes to ensure they are evenly cooked and prevent them from burning on one side.