Best Brussel Sprouts & Barley with Tahini Dressing
Are you looking for a new, healthy and delicious side dish recipe for your Thanksgiving meal? I've got you covered.
Why should we all be eating Brussel sprouts? Besides being in season now, Brussel sprouts are high in nutrients, rich in antioxidants, high in fiber, may help to reduce the risk of cancer, lower cholesterol and strengthen the bones. Plus they are yummy roasted, sautéed and even raw.
Pairing Brussel sprouts with a creamy sweet and spicy tahini dressing makes it an interesting dish for any Thanksgiving meal. It's also a great vegetarian side dish. Give it a try and let me know what you think.
Ingredients
2 cups raw whole Brussels sprouts
½ cup pepitas
2-second pour of olive oil
1½ cups cooked barley
3 tablespoons tahini
3 teaspoons sesame oil
3 teaspoons honey (optional- I prefer to skip added sugars)
Juice of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt
1 bunch fresh mint
2 teaspoons chili flakes
Preparation
Finely slice Brussels sprouts using a mandoline or knife or you can buy them already shredded.
Add olive oil to a saucepan on medium-high heat. Add pepitas and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Add Brussels sprouts and stir for three more minutes before removing from heat.
Combine Brussels sprouts mixture in a bowl with barley, half the bunch of fresh mint, and a pinch of salt.
Mix lemon juice, sesame oil, tahini, honey, and ¼ cup of water in a bowl or glass jar. You want the sauce to pour like a ribbon, so add a little more water if it needs it.
Pour sauce over Brussels mix and garnish with chili flakes. Enjoy!