Shaking up your appetizer game is easier than you think, and ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle are proof! Imagine perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, their nutty tenderness given a fanciful crunch thanks to a pistachio-panko crust, all beautifully threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a sweet-tart cranberry glaze. This dish sparkles with vibrant color and surprising flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking to wow at your next dinner party or just liven up weeknight veggies, ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle are the deliciously memorable bite-size treat you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something deeply satisfying about building flavor from simple, bright ingredients. For ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle, each component brings its own magic: the sprouts offer heft and earthiness, pistachios give irresistible crunch, and the cranberry drizzle ties everything together with a jewel-toned burst of tangy sweetness. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why you’ll love every layer.
- Brussels sprouts (500g, trimmed and halved): Their savory earthiness is the star here – look for sprouts similar in size for even cooking, and halve them for maximum crust coverage.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp + 1 tsp): For roasting and helping everything crisp up just right; extra-virgin brings a nice fruity note.
- Salt (½ tsp): Seasons the sprouts and enhances all their natural veggie-umami.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a gentle, welcome bite to cut through richness.
- Shelled pistachios (½ cup, finely chopped): Brings a luxurious crunch and subtle sweetness; don’t be shy with your chopping!
- Panko breadcrumbs (¼ cup): Lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, they deliver that golden edge.
- Smoked paprika (¼ tsp): The hidden hero: just a pinch lends warmth and faint smokiness to the crust.
- Cranberry sauce or jam (¼ cup): Classic holiday nostalgia with each drizzle – choose a tart, whole-berry version for extra texture.
- Honey (1 tbsp): Balances out the cranberries’ sharpness and rounds out the drizzle beautifully.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tsp): Lends zing and brightness to the sauce; don’t skip it!
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): Brings a touch of green and garden-fresh aroma to finish the dish.
How to Make ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle
Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 200°C (400°F) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper – this will make cleanup a snap later. Toss your halved Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper so each one gets evenly coated and ready to caramelize in the oven. Spread them out cut-side down; this maximizes that golden sear on the edges you’ll crave. Roast them for 12 to 15 minutes, just until they’re starting to get tender but still have a bit of bite.
Step 2: Mix Up the Pistachio Crust
While the sprouts roast, grab a small bowl and combine finely chopped pistachios, panko breadcrumbs, a drizzle of olive oil, and smoky paprika. Stir until those crumbs are glistening and fragrant. This mixture will soon form a crunchy, golden coating that turns ordinary veggies into something seriously addictive.
Step 3: Skewer and Crust the Brussels Sprouts
Carefully thread the roasted Brussels sprouts onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, a quick soak in water for 10 minutes helps prevent burning. Once the sprouts are lined up and cool enough to handle, press the pistachio mixture generously onto the cut sides of each sprout – don’t be shy, a thick crust means extra flavor and crunch!
Step 4: Bake to Toast the Crust
Pop the assembled ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle back on the baking tray and return them to the oven. Another 5 to 7 minutes is all you need; keep an eye out for the pistachio coating turning toasty-brown and deeply fragrant. Your kitchen will smell incredible, promise!
Step 5: Simmer the Cranberry Drizzle
While the skewers finish crisping, set a small saucepan over low heat. Combine cranberry sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar, whisking until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Just a few minutes on the heat will bring everything together into a pourable, ruby-toned sauce that’s as appetizing to look at as it is to eat.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the skewers from the oven, arrange on a pretty platter, and let your inner artist out with a generous drizzle of that cranberry sauce. Sprinkle the finished ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle with fresh parsley for a pop of green, and serve them while they’re still warm and irresistible.
How to Serve ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic and gorgeous, but you can also add a few extra toasted pistachios on top for more color and crunch. If you’re in the mood for sparkle, a tiny hint of citrus zest (lemon or orange) lifts the glaze and brings out those festive flavors even further. Think of garnishes as that finishing touch that makes your ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
These skewers play well with a wide cast of supporting dishes. Try pairing them with a fluffy quinoa pilaf, roasted sweet potatoes, or a hearty grain salad for a plant-based feast. For gatherings, ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle can be a stunning starter flanked by creamy dips or a rustic cheese board. Their tangy-sweet notes also cut through richer mains like nut roasts or baked camembert beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant appetizer, present each skewer standing upright in a tall glass or mason jar lined with parchment. Arrange on a slate board with little puddles of extra cranberry drizzle for dipping, or nestle on a bed of fresh greens for a bright serving platter. If you’re serving a crowd, cut the skewers into bite-sized nuggets with cocktail picks for easy-to-share party snacks—these mini versions are always a hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the party, store any left over ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the cranberry drizzle in a separate small jar or sealed container to avoid soggy crusts.
Freezing
For best results, freeze the skewers before adding the cranberry drizzle. Layer cooled, un-sauced skewers between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container; they’ll keep well for a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and rewarm before finishing with the cranberry sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, arrange the ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle (minus the sauce) on a baking tray and warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 10 minutes, or until hot and crisp again. Drizzle with the cranberry sauce just before serving so every bite keeps its texture and shine.
FAQs
Can I make ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can roast the Brussels sprouts, prepare the pistachio crust, and make the cranberry drizzle up to a day in advance. Assemble and bake the skewers just before serving for the best texture.
What can I use instead of pistachios?
If pistachios aren’t your thing, try chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds. Each nut gives a slightly different crunch and flavor, but all toast beautifully as a breadcrumb crust.
Is there a good substitute for cranberry sauce?
Yes! Lingonberry jam or red currant jelly works well and brings a similar sweet-tart flavor to the drizzle. Even a good-quality raspberry jam with a splash of lemon juice can be a lovely alternative.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely. Simply swap the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice crackers. Make sure your cranberry sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free too.
How do I prevent the pistachio crust from falling off?
Press the pistachio mixture firmly into the cut sides of the roasted sprouts while they’re still warm and a bit moist—it helps everything stick as the crust bakes. Don’t skimp on olive oil in the mix, as it helps the crumbs adhere and crisp up.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, if you’re searching for that dish that everyone will be talking about long after the plates are cleared, ls Sprout Skewers with Cranberry Drizzle are it. They’re colorful, bold, and absolutely packed with flavor in every little bite. Gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and have fun—these skewers are proof that veggies can be the true heart of any meal!