Sautéed brussels sprouts with lemon juice

Sautéed Brussels sprouts with lemon juice combines nutty brown butter with tart lemon for a vibrant side dish. This simple recipe features blanched Brussels sprouts sautéed until caramelized, creating a delicious complement to any meal.

15 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

16 cups water
1.50 lb brussels sprouts
3 tbsp butter
2 dash black pepper
2 dash salt
1/3 cup lemon juice

Sautéed Brussels sprouts with lemon juice is a delightful and easy way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. The nuttiness of the brown butter pairs beautifully with the tartness of lemon juice, creating a vibrant and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will elevate your Brussels sprouts to a whole new level.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
- Trim the stems and remove any yellow or damaged leaves from the Brussels sprouts. Rinse them under cold water.
- Cut the Brussels sprouts in half lengthwise.

2. Blanch the Brussels Sprouts:
- In a large pot, bring the 16 cups of water to a rolling boil.
- Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
- Carefully add the halved Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the Brussels sprouts in a colander and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

3. Brown the Butter:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Continue to cook the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a golden brown and you start to smell a nutty aroma. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter.

4. Sauté the Brussels Sprouts:
- Add the blanched Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the browned butter.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the Brussels sprouts are caramelized and tender.

5. Finish with Lemon Juice:
- Once the Brussels sprouts are nicely browned and tender, remove the skillet from heat.
- Pour in the lemon juice and give everything a good toss to ensure the Brussels sprouts are evenly coated.

6. Serve:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.
- Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving dish.
- Serve immediately as a flavorful side dish to complement your main course.

This sautéed Brussels sprouts recipe with lemon juice is sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of rich brown butter and fresh lemon juice is irresistible. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal, and savor the flavors of this simple yet exquisite preparation.

Sautéed brussels sprouts with lemon juice FAQ:

How long do I cook the Brussels sprouts for optimal tenderness?

After blanching, sauté the Brussels sprouts for 5-7 minutes in the browned butter until they are caramelized and tender. Adjust the time based on your preferred level of doneness.

What pan size is recommended for sautéing the Brussels sprouts?

A large skillet or frying pan is recommended to ensure even cooking and browning of the Brussels sprouts. A 12-inch skillet works well for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can sauté the Brussels sprouts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to regain some crispness.

What can I substitute for lemon juice in this recipe?

If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute with lime juice or a vinegar (like white wine or apple cider vinegar) for a similar tangy effect. Adjust to taste as these may vary slightly in flavor.

What should I do if my browned butter starts to burn?

If your butter is browning too quickly or starts to burn, reduce the heat immediately. You can also remove it from the heat for a moment to cool slightly before continuing to brown it.

Cooking Tips:

- Ensure the Brussels sprouts are of similar size for even cooking. If needed, cut larger sprouts in half.

- Keep a close eye on the butter while browning to prevent it from burning. The butter should be golden brown with a nutty aroma.

- Blanching the Brussels sprouts in boiling water before sautéing helps to soften them slightly and reduces cooking time.

- For added flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots to the butter while sautéing.

- Garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 160kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 16g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 4.31g
Fat 9g

Sautéed brussels sprouts with lemon juice