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Tahini-Caesar Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

4.6 from 146 reviews

This Tahini-Caesar Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe delivers a delightful twist on classic roasted Brussels sprouts, featuring a creamy tahini-based Caesar dressing with anchovies and Parmesan. Combined with crunchy roasted whole-wheat breadcrumbs and nutty sunflower seeds, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory flavors, textures, and freshness, making it an ideal side or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Brussels Sprouts

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Tahini Caesar Dressing

  • 3 oil-packed anchovy fillets, chopped
  • 1 large garlic clove, chopped
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons tahini (or 1 egg yolk as substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Breadcrumbs and Topping

  • 2 cups hearty whole-wheat bread, broken into craggy pieces
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Preheat the oven to 500°F and place racks in the middle and lowest positions. Toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil ensuring they are evenly coated. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Arrange the sprouts cut side down in a single layer on a baking sheet covered tightly with foil.
  2. Roast Brussels Sprouts: Place the baking sheet on the lowest oven rack and roast covered for 10 minutes. Then carefully remove the foil and continue roasting uncovered on the lowest rack for an additional 7 to 10 minutes until the sprouts develop a deep golden brown color and become tender.
  3. Make Anchovy-Garlic Paste: On a cutting board, mound chopped anchovies, garlic, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Using the side of a chef’s knife, mince and mash the mixture together until it forms a smooth, paste-like consistency. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle or anchovy paste with grated garlic.
  4. Prepare Tahini Caesar Dressing: In a large bowl set on a damp towel for stability, whisk together tahini, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until combined. Slowly drizzle in 3 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking vigorously to emulsify the dressing into a thick, glossy mayonnaise-like texture.
  5. Adjust Dressing Consistency and Combine: Add a small dash of water and whisk to adjust the dressing until it reaches the consistency of heavy cream. Stir in the prepared anchovy-garlic paste and grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired.
  6. Toss Brussels Sprouts in Dressing: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts into the bowl with the dressing and toss gently to ensure each sprout is well coated with the creamy tahini Caesar dressing.
  7. Make Breadcrumbs: Toss whole-wheat bread pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a separate sheet pan and roast on the middle oven rack for about 5 minutes or until golden brown and crunchy.
  8. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the dressed Brussels sprouts to a serving platter. Sprinkle the roasted breadcrumbs and roasted sunflower seeds evenly over the top for added texture and nutty flavor. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • If tahini is unavailable, substitute with one egg yolk for the dressing base.
  • Use oil-packed anchovy fillets for easier mincing and richer flavor.
  • Covering the Brussels sprouts with foil initially during roasting helps them steam and soften before crisping up their exterior.
  • Whole-wheat bread adds hearty texture and nutritional value to the breadcrumbs.
  • Adjust salt levels carefully, as anchovies and Parmesan contribute saltiness to the dish.
  • This recipe can be doubled to serve a larger crowd and holds well for reheating with slight crisping in the oven.

Keywords: roasted brussels sprouts, tahini dressing, Caesar dressing, roasted breadcrumbs, healthy side dish, whole wheat breadcrumbs, anchovy dressing