NEW RECIPE: Lemon sauteed Brussel Sprouts with Hazelnuts

© Constantine William Spyrou

One of the most intriguing vegetables to me has to be Brussel sprouts. They are well-known for being completely hated by kids and it's hard for people to grow into liking them. I am admittedly one of those people, but I've started looking at Brussel sprouts differently, and it's helped me start enjoying these compact little vegetables. Brussel sprouts are just like tiny little cabbages in terms of flavor, and can be used in similar styles. For this dish, I decided to use Sauteed Brussel sprouts because they have an amazing taste once they are caramelized. Perfumed with lemon and served with toasted hazelnuts, this becomes a great, robust dish that can be used as a delicious side or a great vegetarian entree. 

Brussel sprouts do need to be blanched before sauteed, but as long as you don't overcook them at first, they become amazing and don't really have too much of the stink that kids know them for. Try making these and seeing how your kids like them! 

Recipe serves 4.

Ingredients:

2 pounds brussel sprouts, washed and cut into quarters
Juice of 2 lemons
2 cups hazelnuts, toasted in a dry pan.
Salt and pepper to season
1/2 tablespoon fresh chopped dill

Cooking/Assembling:

1. Blanch the brussel sprouts in boiling water for 3 minutes, then shock in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Add the brussel sprouts to a hot pan with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, and sautee for about 5 minutes, allowing a brown color to caramelize onto the outer part of the brussel sprouts. Add your dill and toasted hazelnuts towards the end.
3. Just before the brussel sprouts are done, squeeze in your lemon juice and allow to quickly steam the brussel sprouts for 30 seconds. Cool, and serve.

This recipe is extremely quick but packs a lot of flavor. The lemon and dill complement each other and help perfume the brussel sprouts, and the hazelnuts add a great wholesome crunch and some richness to the brussel sprouts. 

I hope you enjoyed this recipe! Let me know what you think and what you would change. If you make it at home, let me know how it turns out! Enjoy! =)