Honey-Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Skewers

Name: Honey-Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden or metal skewers

Highlighted under: Potluck | Sharing Food

I absolutely love this recipe for Honey-Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Skewers! The combination of the sweet honey and tangy balsamic vinegar transforms these little green gems into a delicious appetizer or side dish. When grilled, the Brussels sprouts develop a beautiful charred flavor, making them irresistible. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses both family and friends. Perfect for summer barbecues or holiday gatherings, these skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy Brussels sprouts in a fun and flavorful way!

Created by

The Chefunacooks Team

Last updated on 2026-03-16T11:06:16.647Z

During one of our summer barbeques, I decided to experiment with Brussels sprouts and was pleasantly surprised by the results! I marinated the sprouts in a rich honey-balsamic mixture before threading them onto skewers, and the outcome was extraordinary. Grilling brought out an incredible caramelization that complemented the savory taste of the sprouts beautifully.

We served these skewers as an appetizer, and they disappeared in no time! A tip I found helpful was to soak your wooden skewers in water for about 10 minutes beforehand; this prevents them from burning on the grill. Trust me, these skewers will make your next gathering a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Charred finish that enhances the natural taste of Brussels sprouts
Easy to assemble and great for outdoor grilling

Choosing the Right Brussels Sprouts

When selecting Brussels sprouts for your skewers, look for ones that are small to medium-sized, as they tend to have a more tender texture and sweeter flavor. The outer leaves should be tightly packed and vibrant green. Avoid any sprouts that are yellowing or have blemishes, as these can indicate age or spoilage. If you find fresh Brussels sprouts on the stalk, that's even better! They will stay fresher longer and often have more flavor.

If you're short on time, you can purchase pre-trimmed Brussels sprouts, but they may not be as fresh. It's also worth noting that Brussels sprouts can vary in intensity of flavor. If you find your sprouts are particularly strong, marinating them for a longer time can help mellow out their natural bitterness, allowing the honey-balsamic glaze to shine.

Perfecting the Marinade

This honey-balsamic marinade is integral to balancing the sprout's earthy flavors. The acidity of the balsamic vinegar helps break down the tough fibers of Brussels sprouts, making them more tender and enjoyable when grilled. To enhance the depth of flavor, consider using high-quality aged balsamic vinegar; its sweetness and complexity can elevate the entire dish.

For added dimension, you might experiment with infusing the marinade. A touch of crushed garlic or red pepper flakes can introduce an intriguing layer of heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the honey. Just be mindful to balance these additions carefully, as the goal is to enhance, not overpower, the natural flavors of the Brussels sprouts.

Grilling Tips and Serving Suggestions

Grilling time is crucial to achieving that perfect char without overcooking the Brussels sprouts. Keep an eye on them and turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking and avoid burning. If you notice the sprouts are coloring too quickly, you can move them to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking without additional charring. A good indicator that they’re done is when they can be pierced easily with a fork and have a delightful, mottled golden-brown appearance.

Once the skewers are off the grill, they can be served immediately or even at room temperature, making them a versatile choice for parties. To add an extra touch, I recommend serving them alongside a yogurt sauce or a fresh herb chutney for dipping. Alternatively, these skewers can be paired with grilled meats or enjoyed as a centerpiece for a vegan meal.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for easier assembly.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Brussels Sprouts

Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated Brussels sprouts onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill over medium heat. Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are charred and tender.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with a bit more balsamic if desired. Serve warm.

Enjoy these delicious skewers as a side or appetizer at your next meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the marinade ahead of time, storing it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the final dish. Just be sure to give it a good stir or shake before adding the Brussels sprouts, as the honey may settle at the bottom.

If you're planning a barbecue, you can marinate the Brussels sprouts the night before. Just keep them in a sealed container in the fridge, so they soak up all that rich flavor overnight. This not only saves time on the day of grilling but also ensures your Brussels have a head start on that delicious taste!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be enjoyed cold or quickly reheated. To rewarm, I recommend placing them in a toaster oven or frying pan over low heat, as this will help maintain their texture without drying them out.

If you prefer, you can also reheat the skewers on a grill over low heat, turning them carefully to avoid burning. It’s a great way to bring back that grilled flavor while keeping the sprouts juicy and tender. Just remember that reheating may slightly alter the texture, so it’s best to consume them fresh for an optimal experience.

Flavor Variations

While the honey-balsamic glaze is a standout, consider experimenting with different flavor profiles. Swap out honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a unique twist that still offers that sweet element. Additionally, try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the marinade for a umami boost.

For a smoky flavor, you might sprinkle some smoked paprika over the Brussels sprouts before grilling. This adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the glaze, creating a more complex flavor profile. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your seasonings—each variation can bring a new life to these skewers!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen, but make sure to thaw and drain them well.

→ What can I serve these skewers with?

These skewers pair beautifully with grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish.

→ How long can leftover skewers be stored?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.