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Nothing turns a simple vegetable into a sensational side dish quite like the harmonious blend of nutty sesame and a kick of sriracha. When I first stumbled upon this delightful combination, I was skeptical—a mere side of Brussels sprouts transforming into a crunchy, flavor-packed experience? As the scent of toasted sesame oil wafted through my kitchen, I quickly realized that these Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts with Sriracha Aioli were destined to become a staple in my home.

There’s a certain joy that comes from discovering a healthy recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, and this one delivers just that! Whether you opt for the oven-baked version or the quick air fryer method, these vibrant little morsels are irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Tossed in a creamy, spicy aioli made with zesty lime juice and a hint of garlic, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of excitement to their dinner plate. Say goodbye to bland fast food and hello to a homemade feast that elevates the ordinary into something extraordinary!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts

Bold flavors: The nutty sesame oil combined with zesty sriracha aioli creates a tantalizing taste that will elevate your meal.
Versatile options: Choose between baking them for a classic crispy texture or air frying for a speedy, healthier alternative.
Quick prep: With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a vibrant side dish ready in no time.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying on a cozy night in, these sprouts are sure to turn skeptics into fans!
Healthy indulgence: Enjoy the crunchy perfection without the guilty feeling of fast food. Treat yourself to these delicious Brussels sprouts and see them become a family favorite.

Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts
• 1 lb brussels sprouts – Trimmed and halved, these gems become irresistibly crispy when cooked just right.
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil – This oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that’s the star of the show in your crispy sesame Brussels sprouts.
• salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the sprouts, making them simply delectable.

For the Sriracha Aioli
• 1/3 cup mayo – This creamy base creates the perfect canvas for the aioli’s bold flavors.
• 1 tbsp sriracha – Adjust to your spice level; it’s the kick that transforms your aioli into a fiery delight!
• 1 tbsp lime juice – Freshly squeezed adds zest and brightness, balancing the richness of the mayo.
• pinch of garlic powder – A hint of garlic infuses the aioli with an aromatic touch that everyone will love.
• pinch of ground ginger – Offers a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors perfectly.

Enjoy the crispy sensation of these Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts with Sriracha Aioli and elevate your meals to a whole new level!

How to Make Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: In a bowl, combine the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure they are fully coated and ready for cooking.
Bake the Sprouts: For a crispier texture, place the prepared Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake them on the top rack at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, tossing halfway through for even cooking.
Air Fry for Quick Crunch: If you’re short on time, add the Brussels sprouts to the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F for 5 minutes, then toss them around and air fry for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they reach your desired crispiness.
Make the Sriracha Aioli: While the sprouts are cooking, combine the mayo, sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, and ground ginger in a bowl. Stir until well mixed. Cover and chill until you’re ready to serve.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cooked Brussels sprouts immediately, drizzled or accompanied by the spicy sriracha aioli for dipping. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and visual appeal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts

Select Fresh Sprouts: Look for vibrant, firm Brussels sprouts with tight leaves. Avoid any that are wilted or have blemishes for the best flavor.
Coat Well: Ensure each sprout is evenly coated with toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper to achieve that glorious crispy texture while baking or air frying.
Spacing Matters: When baking or air frying, keep the sprouts in a single layer. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of that delightful crispiness you want in your Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts.
Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary based on the size of the sprouts. Check them a few minutes early to prevent overcooking and ensure your sprouts remain tender inside and crunchy outside.
Customize the Aioli: Feel free to adjust the sriracha according to your heat preference and experiment with adding fresh herbs or extra lime for a unique twist to the dip!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor their delightful flavors even on your busiest days! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them, then tossing them in toasted sesame oil, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The sriracha aioli can also be made ahead; simply combine the ingredients and chill for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, roast or air fry the Brussels sprouts according to the recipe instructions, and top them off with the aioli for a quick, delicious meal that feels gourmet with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store your leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their crispy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unseasoned, cooked Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for 2-3 months.

Reheating: To revive the crispy goodness, reheat in the oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes or air fry at 380°F for 5 minutes. Enjoy them fresh with sriracha aioli!

What to Serve with Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts & Sriracha Aioli?

Elevate your meal with these complementary dishes that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

Savory Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty, protein-packed dish adds heartiness and pairs wonderfully with the spiced aioli.
Coconut Rice: Fragrant and creamy, coconut rice brings a subtle sweetness that works perfectly with the heat of the sriracha.
Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy chicken breasts infused with zesty lemon enhance your veggie side, creating a satisfying main course.
Garlic Noodles: Delicately tossed with garlic butter, these noodles offer a comforting balance to the crispy sprouts.
Sesame-Crusted Tofu: For a vegetarian protein option, this crispy tofu delivers a delightful crunch and complements the sesame flavors.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white complements the vibrant flavors of the Brussels sprouts, making your meal feel refreshing.
Cucumber Salad: A light, tangy salad brings a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm, crispy Brussels sprouts.
Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich and velvety chocolate mousse satisfies sweet cravings while ending your meal on a luscious note.
Boba Tea: This fun drink adds a touch of novelty and sweetness, making it a delightful pairing for your veggie adventure!

Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts Variations

Get ready to take this delightful dish to new heights with your own personal twist!

Soy-Free: Swap toasted sesame oil with olive oil or coconut oil for a unique flavor while keeping it soy-free.
Vegan: Replace mayo with a vegan mayo alternative to create a plant-based version of the creamy aioli.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the aioli for an extra burst of heat that warms the palate.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley into the aioli for a refreshing green note that brightens the dish.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Toss in a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top of the Brussels sprouts right before serving for added crunch and nutty richness.
Citrus Zest: Grate some lime zest into the aioli to intensify the citrus flavor, giving your dip an aromatic twist that’s unforgettable.
Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate a teaspoon of honey or agave into the aioli for a sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with the heat of sriracha.
Crunchy Topping: Finish with crispy fried shallots or panko breadcrumbs for an irresistible crunch that elevates the texture of your Brussels sprouts.

Crispy Sesame Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to choose fresh Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, opt for those that are firm with vibrant green leaves. Avoid any that are wilted, yellowing, or have dark spots all over. Fresh Brussels sprouts will ensure a deliciously tender and crispy bite.

How should I store leftover Brussels sprouts?
To keep your leftover crispy sesame Brussels sprouts fresh, simply place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their crispy texture, consider reheating instead of consuming them cold.

Can I freeze crispy Brussels sprouts?
Very! To freeze cooked Brussels sprouts, first, let them cool. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about 1 to 2 hours. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their delicious crispiness!

What should I do if my sprouts are soggy after cooking?
If your Brussels sprouts turn out soggy, it could be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet or air fryer basket, which causes steaming rather than the desired crispiness. For next time, make sure to space them out sufficiently. If you’ve already cooked them, try placing them back in the oven or air fryer at a high temperature for a few minutes to help revive their crunch.

Are these Brussels sprouts suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, these crispy sesame Brussels sprouts are inherently gluten-free! Just be sure to double-check that the ingredients used, particularly the sriracha and mayo, do not contain any gluten or gluten-containing additives. Adjust as needed for allergies or dietary preferences, and enjoy this delectable side without worry!

What can I do if I don’t like spicy foods but love this recipe?
If sriracha is too spicy for your taste, you can easily reduce the amount or substitute it with a milder hot sauce or even a bit of honey for a hint of sweetness. You can also experiment with adding fresh herbs or spices that you love into the aioli, making it uniquely yours while still enjoying the savory flavor of the Brussels sprouts!