Brussels Sprouts And Peas In Brown Butter
Tender Brussels sprouts and sweet peas are cooked in browned butter with lemon zest and juice, creating a bright, savory side perfect for any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim off stem and any yellow leaves from Brussels sprouts. Slice sprouts vertically into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Grate 1 teaspoon peel from lemon and squeeze 1 tablespoon juice.
- In a 12-inch skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat and cook 2 minutes or until light golden brown, stirring.
- Add sliced Brussels sprouts and stir to coat with browned butter.
- Add 1/4 cup water and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and add lemon peel, peas, salt, pepper, and another 1/4 cup water.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, then stir in lemon juice.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal results, choose fresh Brussels sprouts that are firm and vibrant. If unavailable, frozen sprouts can be a convenient substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots while cooking the sprouts. For a nuttier twist, try using brown butter as a base, similar to techniques used in American recipes like the Black Walnut Dover Cake.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. Serve it alongside Fancy Baked Potatoes for a comforting side. For a vegetarian option, consider serving with quinoa or a hearty grain salad. This vibrant mix can also be a delightful topping for toast or as part of a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture of the Brussels sprouts and peas, or use a microwave for quick reheating. Add a splash of water if they seem dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brussels Sprouts And Peas In Brown Butter contains roughly 99 calories, with 5g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but they will require less cooking time. Add them in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to maintain their bright color and sweetness.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter. This will alter the flavor slightly but will still yield a delicious dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the Brussels sprouts. This will give a nice heat that complements the sweetness of the peas.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).