Are you sitting down?
Well, what I’m about to say, might make you want to hold your ground… and dig your heals in. But if I’m right… and I’m usually pretty right when it comes to food. One bite of these Balsamic Brussels Bites, and you’ll be brought to your knees begging…
more Brussels Sprouts please!
So, I realize it’s usually a love it or hate it thing when it comes to Brussels, but I’m on a quest to change that! First with my French Pizza (seriously, you need to try this!) Then, with my Roast Hash. And now with these amazing appetizers.
Even my dog loves Brussels Sprouts (I raised you well, Ocean!)
So bold?
Oh yea, these babies are bold in flavor… and OK, so they’re not quite so beautiful. But, something about the acidity of the balsamic mixed with the sweet of the grapes, the fat of the sausage, and the Brussels, which we all know have a flavor all their own.
What do you think they taste like?
I’m thinking a cross between an artichoke and cabbage.
Perfect as is, or you can even take it to the next level, if you dare.
~ Try a flavored balsamic vinegar… like blueberry, or something with some heat (I’m thinking a balsamic w/some serrano chiles).
~ Add in some cheese… because you know how I love cheese… especially fresh mozzarella! These would be delicious w/a mozzarella ball (added on after the roasting) and drizzled with extra balsamic glaze.
~ And if you’re feeling really adventurous… roast some beets to add to the mix. Golden beets are my favorite roasted and would be fantastic, adding even more flavor to these Bites. This could easily become a vegetarian appetizer as well, as there are so many amazing veggies and fruits that roast up to perfection. Sweet potatoes, leeks, pears, carrots, parsnips, apples… the possibilities are endless!
Just don’t forget to add in the Brussels.
And don’t forget to salt and drizzle all with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Yes… even salt the fruit.
Balsamic Brussels Bites with Smoked Sausage and Red Grapes
Cut up:
Brussels Sprouts- cut off stem and cut in half
Red Grapes- leave these whole
Vidalia or Red Onion- cut in small half moons (this in mainly used for flavor)
1 Package Smoked Sausage (I like Hillshire Farms Angus)- cut into 1/2″ coins
Place all on a rimmed cookie sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste. Salt and pepper and roast at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes or until nicely caramelized. Then add to toothpicks smoked sausage on the bottom, then a sprout, and top it off with a grape. Perfection!
Source: dianadarling.net (defunct blog)
