Brussels sprouts – these maligned little cabbages of yesteryear… well, not anymore!  These bite size morsels are popping up all over the place from bar menus to bacon and bourbon lathered side dishes. They are definitely on the total hip list these days and are chock full of vitamins K and C, as well as iron, fiber and vitamin A.

(Photo from www.Nutritioulicious.com)

There are lots of great ways to prepare Brussels sprouts from quick sautéed to oven roasted, even shaved and raw in a slaw or salad.

You can also separate the “leaves” and give those a quick toss in a hot pan for a d’lish top to mac and cheese or grilled pork. To do this, cut the core of the Brussels sprout out with a small paring knife. Then “peel” all the leaves off – super easy to do!

My associate chef Cameon loves these little leaves tossed in a sauté pan with some brown butter! Cook them until they are bright green but not too wilted. Finish it off with a squeeze of lemon. YUM!

For a healthy preparation, cut the sprouts in half and toss with a little salt, pepper, and olive oil – and roast them in a 400 degree oven until tender. Perfect with any hearty dinner.

Or just head to your local gastropub, favorite restaurant or bar.. they’re sure to be on the menu in some fashion!  –Kathy

Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Walnut Butter
Makes about 12 servings

3/4 cup walnut pieces
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons minced lemon zest
2 tablespoons real maple syrup
6 cups (about 3 pounds) trimmed and halved fresh Brussels sprouts

Preheat an oven to 350°F.

Spread the walnuts on a baking pan and place in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, or until the nuts are lightly toasted and golden. Let cool.

Place the butter, salt, pepper, lemon juice, zest, and maple syrup in a food processor and process until smooth. Add the cooled walnuts, and pulse until the butter mixture is almost smooth but small pieces of walnut are still visible.

Steam the Brussels sprouts in a steaming basket over boiling water until just tender but not overcooked. Immediately toss with the softened walnut butter and serve.

Chef’s Tips:
• If making the walnut butter ahead of time, it can be refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 1 month. Be sure to bring to room temperature before using.
• Another way to serve the Brussels sprouts is to peel each “leaf” off and sauté the leaves in the walnut butter.

Recipe by Kathy Casey Food Studios®.