My feelings towards Brussel Sprouts sure have changed during my life.  I moved from disliking the smell, look, and taste to having them as one of my favorite vegetables.  There is one experience I vividly recall when I was growing up. I was adamant and knew if I ate the one (canned) Brussel Sprout on my plate that it would come back up.  Well, I had to eat it and yes, it came back up.

Now years later, I have new Brussel Sprout stories.  It all started with a good friend who is a vegetarian.  She talked about how often she eats Brussel Sprouts and all the different ways she fixes them.  I was intrigued.  So, I began learning more about them.

I learned that I only like fresh Brussel Sprouts.  I am not a fan of canned or frozen.  Their season is from September thru February.  However, fresh ones can be found year-round. The smaller ones, 1-1 ½ inches in diameter, are more tender than the larger ones.

I have tried them many different ways. Here is my top 5 list:

• Fresh, shredded in a Brussel Sprouts salad or as an addition to a leafy green salad.
• Broiled with other vegetables such as sweet potatoes, onions, carrots, parsnips, etc.
• Shredded and grilled with mushrooms, zucchinis, red or yellow peppers, and onions.
• Sauteed in a cast iron skillet similar to the grilled version.
• Quinoa added after they are grilled or sautéed (refer to My New Favorite Recipe)

Steve does not care for Brussel Sprouts when they are cut in half and broiled or grilled.  He does however, like them shredded in the food processor or finely chopped and grilled or sauteed with the other vegetables. Now, I fixed them this way at least once a week.

Brussel sprouts are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins and minerals.  They are also one of the best plant sources of omega-3 fatty acid.  They can be easily added to any diet and can make a positive impact on your health. 

I am glad that my feelings toward Brussel Sprouts have changed throughout the years! I will continue to look for new ways to enjoy them. What are your favorite ways to eat Brussel Sprouts?