Brussels Sprouts: The Best Ways to Pick Them, Cook Them, and Eat Them

Brussels sprouts are one of the great surprises of the vegetable world. They look like tiny cabbages, but they’re so much more, with their tightly-furled little heads that are so satisfying to bite into. They mellow out and get sweet in the oven, and are absolutely stunning with a squeeze of lemon. Plus… they’re just so darn cute. Somehow these bite-sized cruciferous vegetables have become absolute rock stars. If you think your life would be better with just a sprout or two more, start here.

Must-reads for the sprout savants among us.

1. The most popular Brussels sprout recipe on Pinterest.
2. The best way to reheat crispy roasted Brussels sprouts.
3. A $13 unitasker for Brussels sprouts that we LOVE.
4. Brussels sprouts… tortilla chips? If TJ’s says they’re good we gotta try.
5. Have you ever seen how Brussels sprouts grow? It’s kind of wild, in a good way.

One hundred grams of Brussels sprouts (a little over a cup) contains 43 calories and a huge amount of Vitamin C (141% of your daily recommended amount). It also has modest amounts of potassium, fiber, and Vitamin A.

Brussels sprouts contain a little over 5g of net carbs in 100g of raw vegetables.

The keto and low-carb eating practices rely on eating lower amounts of net carbs (carbs minus the fiber). Depending on one’s carb budget, Brussels sprouts can be a delicious and satisfying way to eat nutritiously while following this eating practice. 

• More about net carbs here.

Look for small Brussels sprouts, which will be tastier than those monster ones. Look for sprouts that are still tightly bound up in their leaves, and bright green.

To store Brussels sprouts, refrigerate them in an open bag or container. They will last for several weeks! If the outer leaves shrivel just remove and discard before cooking.

• The Best Way to Store Brussels Sprouts

Here’s everything you need to know about picking, trimming, and preparing Brussels sprouts, with step-by-step photos:

• How To Prep & Store Brussels Sprouts

The very best way to cook Brussels sprouts is (probably!) to roast them. The higher the heat the better; they should get blitzed into flavor with crackly outer leaves and plenty of color on them. We recommend slicing in half, tossing in oil and salt and pepper, and roasting at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes.

• How To Roast Brussels Sprouts

Plus…

• 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Roasting Brussels Sprouts
• 10 Easy Ways to Upgrade Roasted Brussels Sprouts

One other way that is excellent for cooking Brussels sprouts is the grill. That’s right, the grill!

• How to Grill Brussels Sprouts

Last but not least, Brussels sprouts are delicious when shaved into slaw:

• 5 Ways to Turn Brussels Sprouts into Slaw

Is it safe for dogs to eat Brussels sprouts? Yes, says the American Kennel Club. In moderation (since they can cause gas). But they are quite healthy for your pooch. As always, if you have questions or concerns about feeding your dog human food, talk to your veterinarian.

Yes, you can blanch and chill Brussels sprouts, then freeze them. Frozen Brussels sprouts can be cooked in any recipe calling for Brussels, although we would recommend not using in slaws (they’ll be too mushy) and that you stick to recipes that will result in slow-cooked or braised Brussels.

Slice or shave them and then use them in your next salad or slaw!

1. Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic and Honey
2. Honey-Mustard Brussels Sprouts
3. Slow Cooker Cheesy Garlic Brussels Sprouts
4. Smoky, Lemony Shredded Brussels Sprouts
5. Roasted Potatoes with Bacon & Brussels Sprouts
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts Chips
7. Lemony Brussels Sprouts & Breadcrumb Spaghetti
8. How To Roast Brussels Sprouts
9. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
10. Smoky Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Kielbasa
11. The Easiest, Cheesiest Brussels Sprout Casserole
12. Cider-Glazed Brussels Sprouts and Bacon
13. Sautéed Brussels Sprouts with Red Pepper and Corn
14. Pasta with Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Pancetta
15. Thai-Style Brussels Sprouts

What’s your favorite recipe or use for Brussels sprouts? Any favorite way to cook them?

31 Days of Vegetables: How to fall in love with vegetables in 31 days. How many of these splendid veg have you eaten this month? Take a look at the whole list and take our July challenge to eat every single one!