Print

Tahini-Caesar Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 8 reviews

This Tahini-Caesar Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe offers a vibrant twist on the classic Caesar salad by incorporating creamy tahini dressing and crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, topped with crunchy whole-wheat breadcrumbs and roasted sunflower seeds. Perfect as a flavorful side dish or a light, satisfying vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

Brussels Sprouts

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Tahini Caesar Dressing

  • 3 oil-packed anchovy fillets, chopped
  • 1 large garlic clove, chopped
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons tahini (or 1 egg yolk as substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Dash of water, as needed for consistency
  • 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Breadcrumbs and Topping

  • 2 cups hearty whole-wheat bread, broken into craggy pieces
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 500°F (260°C), positioning the racks in the middle and lowest slots to prepare for roasting the Brussels sprouts and breadcrumbs.
  2. Prepare Brussels Sprouts: Toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Arrange them cut side down in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover tightly with foil.
  3. Roast Brussels Sprouts: Place the baking sheet on the lowest oven rack and roast for 10 minutes covered. After 10 minutes, remove the foil and continue roasting uncovered on the same rack for an additional 7–10 minutes until the sprouts develop a deep golden brown color.
  4. Make Anchovy-Garlic Paste: On a cutting board, combine the chopped anchovies, garlic, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Mince together using a chef’s knife, mashing and scraping until the ingredients form a smooth paste. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle or prepared anchovy and garlic paste.
  5. Prepare Tahini Dressing Base: In a large bowl set on a damp towel to prevent slipping, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until combined.
  6. Emulsify Dressing: Slowly drizzle in the 3 tablespoons of olive oil while whisking vigorously and constantly. Continue adding oil gradually until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy with a mayonnaise-like texture.
  7. Adjust Dressing Consistency: Add a dash of water and whisk. Continue to add small amounts of water as needed until the dressing reaches a consistency similar to heavy cream.
  8. Incorporate Paste and Cheese: Whisk in the anchovy-garlic paste and grated Parmesan cheese until the dressing is smooth. Taste and season further with salt and black pepper if necessary.
  9. Toss Brussels Sprouts with Dressing: Transfer the roasted Brussels sprouts into the bowl with the tahini Caesar dressing and gently toss to coat evenly.
  10. Prepare Breadcrumbs: Toss the whole-wheat bread pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a separate baking sheet.
  11. Roast Breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs on the middle oven rack and roast for about 5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crunchy, stirring once if needed to ensure even toasting.
  12. Assemble Dish: Transfer the dressed Brussels sprouts to a serving platter. Top with the crispy breadcrumbs and scatter the roasted sunflower seeds over the top for added texture and flavor.

Notes

  • The tahini in the dressing adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture, but you can substitute with 1 egg yolk if preferred.
  • Roasting Brussels sprouts covered initially helps them steam and cook evenly, while uncovering at the end adds a beautiful caramelized crust.
  • Using oil-packed anchovies ensures a deep umami flavor in the dressing; pulverize them thoroughly for smooth texture.
  • Adjust the dressing consistency with water to your preference, aiming for a pourable but thick sauce.
  • Whole-wheat breadcrumbs add a healthy crunch; dry bread or homemade bread cubes work well.
  • Watch the bread crumbs closely while roasting to avoid burning as ovens and bread types vary.