Healthy Side Dish – Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze
I still remember the first time I experimented with a healthy side dish that could satisfy my love for crispy textures and bold flavors. I was in my kitchen, searching for something quick, healthy, and impressive enough to serve at a family gathering. That’s when I thought of making Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze. The aroma of roasting sprouts, the sizzling sound as the glaze caramelized, and the golden crispiness that emerged from my air fryer made me realize this wasn’t just any side dish it was the perfect blend of health and indulgence. Over time, it became my go-to recipe when I needed a healthy side dish that was vegetarian-friendly, full of nutrients, and irresistibly delicious.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Best Air Fryer Vegetable Recipes for more ideas that make eating healthy a treat.
Table of Contents
Why This Healthy Side Dish Is a Game-Changer
The beauty of this healthy side dish lies in its simplicity and nutrition. Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Cooking them in an air fryer means you use less oil but still achieve that perfectly crispy exterior. The honey balsamic glaze adds a sweet tangy punch that elevates the natural flavors of the sprouts without overpowering them.
Nutritional Benefits of Brussels Sprouts
- High in immune-boosting vitamin C
- Supports bone health with vitamin K
- Rich in fiber for better digestion
- Contains antioxidants that fight inflammation
Why Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe?
Air frying reduces overall calories and fat content, making this healthy side dish suitable for weight management while still providing a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s faster and less messy than traditional roasting.
Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts trimmed and halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil just enough to coat
- salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Wash, trim, and halve Brussels sprouts.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air fry Brussels sprouts for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Mix honey and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl to make the glaze.
- Drizzle glaze over sprouts just before serving and toss lightly.
Notes
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Fresh Brussels sprouts (halved)
- Olive oil (just enough to coat)
- Salt & pepper
- Honey
- Balsamic vinegar
Check out our Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Asparagus if you’re looking for another green veggie with a flavor twist.
Preparation Steps
- Wash and trim Brussels sprouts.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Mix honey and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl.
- Drizzle glaze over sprouts right before serving.
Tips for Getting Extra Crispy Brussels Sprouts
The key to achieving the perfect crunch is not overcrowding the air fryer basket. Air circulation is essential for that golden, crispy finish. You can also increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 2 minutes for an extra crisp.
Don’t miss our Air Fryer Roasted Carrots for another easy, healthy side dish that pairs well with almost any main course.
Flavor Variations for This Healthy Side Dish
Savory Parmesan Twist
Skip the honey glaze and sprinkle with Parmesan for a salty kick.
Spicy Honey Balsamic
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a sweet-spicy balance.
Serving Ideas for Perfectly Crispy Brussels Sprouts
This healthy side dish pairs beautifully with grilled salmon, roast chicken, or a vegetarian quinoa salad. It’s perfect for holiday feasts, casual dinners, and even meal prep.
For a light, refreshing option, see our Celery and Ranch snack pairing it’s a cool contrast to warm, crispy sprouts.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and keep them crispy, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Why Honey Balsamic Glaze Works So Well
Honey provides natural sweetness that balances the slightly bitter edge of Brussels sprouts, while balsamic vinegar brings depth and acidity. Together, they create a rich, flavorful coating that makes this healthy side dish irresistible.
Conclusion
This Healthy Side Dish – Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze is proof that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. With minimal ingredients, quick cooking, and a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat.
Check out our refreshing dessert idea, Air Fryer Banana Bites, to end your healthy meal on a sweet note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make a Healthy Side Dish – Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze?
A: Start by trimming and halving fresh Brussels sprouts, toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes. Finish with a drizzle of honey mixed with balsamic vinegar for a sweet-tangy glaze.
Can I make this healthy side dish without honey?
A: Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep the glaze plant-based and still enjoy that sweet balance with the crispy Brussels sprouts.
How do I keep Brussels sprouts crispy after air frying?
A: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket and serve immediately after cooking. If reheating, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes instead of microwaving.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet?
A: The base recipe is vegetarian. For a vegan-friendly version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
What main dishes pair well with this healthy side dish?
A: This recipe pairs perfectly with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, plant-based burgers, or a quinoa salad.
Can I prepare the honey balsamic glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the glaze up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and warm it slightly before drizzling over your Brussels sprouts.
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