Easy Roasted Brussels Sprouts (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 1/2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts
02 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
04 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Optional Finishing Touches

05 - Fresh lemon wedges for serving
06 - 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

# Instructions:

01 - Place a rimmed baking sheet on the middle rack of your oven and preheat to 425°F. Preheating the baking sheet helps the Brussels sprouts get nicely browned on the bottom.
02 - Trim the woody stems from the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half (quarter any particularly large ones). Toss them in a large bowl with the olive oil, kosher salt, and a few generous grinds of fresh black pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Carefully spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on the hot baking sheet. Roast until they're tender when pierced with a knife and the cut sides develop a beautiful golden-brown caramelization, about 20-25 minutes.
04 - For a bright, citrusy finish, serve with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over top. For a sweeter version, turn off the oven, drizzle maple syrup over the hot sprouts, and toss to coat. Return to the warm (but turned-off) oven for about 2 minutes to allow the sprouts to absorb the sweetness.

# Notes:

01 - These Brussels sprouts develop a wonderful caramelized exterior while the insides become tender but not mushy.
02 - For the best browning, don't overcrowd the pan - use two baking sheets if necessary.