Alkalizing Holiday Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Toasted Pecans
Why This Dish Belongs on Your Holiday Table
Holiday meals don’t have to leave you feeling heavy, inflamed, or acidic. This vibrant Brussels sprouts recipe is a perfect example of how festive food can also support an alkaline-forming lifestyle. Cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts help support detox pathways, while healthy fats, citrus zest, and mineral-rich nuts bring balance, flavor, and nourishment.
This dish is colorful, comforting, and just indulgent enough to feel like a celebration—without derailing your wellness goals.
Holiday Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries & Toasted Pecans
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
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1½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
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2–3 tablespoons olive oil
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½ teaspoon sea salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
Holiday Garnish (Added After Roasting)
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½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened preferred for alkalinity)
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¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
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1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or 2 teaspoons balsamic glaze
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Zest of ½ lemon or ½ orange
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Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for warmth)
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup and better caramelization.
2. Toss the Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper.
Spread them evenly on the pan cut-side down—this is the secret to those golden, crispy edges.
3. Roast to Perfection
Roast for 20–25 minutes, resisting the urge to stir until the last 5 minutes.
You’re looking for deeply golden edges with a slight char—this brings out their natural sweetness.
4. Add the Holiday Magic
As soon as the sprouts come out of the oven, gently toss with:
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Cranberries
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Toasted pecans or walnuts
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Citrus zest
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A light drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze
The warmth helps everything meld together beautifully.
5. Taste & Brighten
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon if desired. Adjust seasoning to taste and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
Why This Recipe Is More Alkaline-Friendly
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Brussels sprouts are alkaline-forming and rich in minerals
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Olive oil & nuts support anti-inflammatory balance
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Citrus zest adds alkalizing minerals without acidity
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Naturally sweetened cranberries keep sugar in check
It’s a side dish that loves your digestion back.
Perfect Pairings
This recipe pairs beautifully with:
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Roasted root vegetables
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Lentil or white bean mains
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Holiday protein dishes when you want a lighter, balancing side
