Roast TWO humble veggies in one - brussels sprouts and carrots - and toss them in a very simple but delicious honey mustard balsamic dressing for a side dish that's perfect for both fancy and simple meals alike. Browned, crisp and caramelized on the outside and soft and delicious on the inside, these will convert even the most ardent of brussels sprouts haters!
4teaspoonsfresh thymePull the leaves off the tough stalk by running your thumb and finger down it (I find it's best to do this from the top of the stalks downwards). Alternatively use just 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
Pre-heat the oven to 205C/400F. Line a large baking tray with baking paper.
Empty the washed and cut brussels sprouts and carrots onto the baking tray. Include any brussels leaves that have fallen off. Toss through the olive oil and thyme.
Roast the vegetables for around 25 to 30 minutes or until the brussels are golden and crispy in parts (but not burnt) and the carrots are starting to caramelize. Toss around half way through cooking.
Meanwhile, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Microwave for 30 seconds to melt the butter.
When the vegetables are cooked, immediately toss the dressing through them. Empty them into a serving bowl. Sprinkle over any toppings (purely optional) and serve immediately.
crumbled cheese, toasted nuts, dried berries
Video
Notes
Preparing the brussels sprouts and carrots: Wash well. Chop off the bottom ends. Slice in half lengthwise (from the top to the bottom). Sometimes I even slice in quarters if the brussels are especially big.I sometimes wash again after I've prepared them. Don't throw away any rogue leaves that fall off as you prepare the brussels. Throw them onto the baking tray too and they'll get extra crispy!I usually cut the carrots into chunks slightly smaller than the brussels sprouts as they take slightly longer to cook than brussels. How long to cook for: You want the brussels to be nicely browned and a little crispy in parts. Charred is OK but burnt is not! Just keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time. The carrots take a little longer to cook than the brussels, so it's a fine balance.Preparing ahead: You can wash and cut the vegetables in advance, toss them with the olive oil and thyme and then cover and store in the fridge until ready to cook. You can also prepare the dressing ahead. Whisk everything together and store in the fridge covered until ready to use. When roasted, toss the vegetables with the dressing just before serving. You want the brussels to retain their crisp!