Scandinavian Brussels Sprouts

As part of this week’s focus on Thanksgiving, this über-easy microwave recipe is a quick and tangy way to prepare sprouts. The microwave’s quick cooking keeps them a fresh shade of green - no fading. A great meal is all about a complementary balance of textures and flavors: If your festive table already has a couple of dishes swimming in sauce, this refreshing burst of citrus provides a smart contrast! My guests always request the recipe when I cook sprouts this way!

Scandinavian Brussels Sprouts:

2 lb. (1 kg) fresh brussels sprouts

¼ c. (60 mL) water

2 tsp. (10 mL) butter or margarine

Juice and grated peel of 1-½ fresh lemons

½ tsp. (2.5 mL) granulated sugar (or 1 sugar cube)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Peel and trim thick and yellowing outer leaves from sprouts. Cut away stalks, marking a small X into base to allow sprouts to cook evenly and quickly. Set raw sprouts aside. 

Combine water, butter, lemon juice and peel, and sugar, heating uncovered in 1-½ (1.5 L) quart casserole until butter melts, about 30 sec. Roll uncooked sprouts in lemon mixture and let stand at least 1 hr. Cook on full power, covered, 6 or 7 min. or just until tender, stirring once. Let stand 5 min. Season to taste. Serves 6. 

For more recipes like this one, see One Click: Brussels Sprouts.

You can't go wrong with crisp, fresh Brussels sprouts.