Heart Healthy Roasted Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 10/30/2025
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | Gluten Free | Diabetic
Heart Healthy Roasted Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

Rustic vegetables are roasted to their golden-brown and garlicky best in this super-easy sheet pan recipe that can also be made in an air fryer. Add crumbled bacon and fresh rosemary for a deep, earthy flavor that just might become an addiction. This easy side dish is crispy, flavorful, and simple to customize.  If you're looking for more healthy, veggie-forward meal inspiration, check out all our healthy vegetable recipes.

Total Time
45 minutes
Servings
8
Calories
83

What Makes These Heart Healthy Roasted Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts Healthy

These roasted vegetables are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are packed with fiber and vitamins from cruciferous vegetables, use heart-healthy olive oil instead of butter, and get a savory flavor from turkey bacon, which is lower in saturated fat than traditional pork bacon. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness without adding sugar.

Key Health Highlights

  • Only 83 calories per serving
  • Just 233 mg sodium per serving
  • Good source of fiber (3g)
  • Diabetic-friendly and Gluten-Free
  • Dietitian-reviewed as a heart-healthy side dish

FAQs About Roasted Cauliflower and Brussels Sprouts

Don't overcrowd the pan, use high heat (450°F), and make sure the vegetables are patted completely dry. Tossing with oil just before roasting (instead of marinating overnight) also helps create a crispier texture.

A high temperature, like 450°F (232°C) as used in this recipe, is best for getting them brown and crispy without becoming mushy.

No. While you can marinate them overnight to prep ahead, tossing them with oil and seasonings right before baking will yield a crispier, less "soggy" result.

Yes! Toss the vegetables with oil and seasonings and cook at 390°F (199°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until tender and crispy.

Absolutely. Toss the hot roasted vegetables with 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze or 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese immediately after they come out of the oven (be mindful of the parmesan sodium content if you're watching salt intake).

They have similar roasting times and densities, so you can roast them together on the same pan.

Yes, you should rinse them, trim the ends, and remove any yellow or damaged outer leaves. Most importantly, pat them completely dry before seasoning.

Heart-Healthy Main Course Inspiration

Chicken, fish, beef and savory pork can all pair beautifully with your roasted vegetables.

More Healthy Vegetable Sides

Round out your meal with these recipes for healthy fries and chips.

Tips for Crispy (Not Soggy) Vegetables

The key to crispy (not soggy) roasted vegetables is managing moisture and heat. 

  • Pat Vegetables Dry: Before tossing with oil, make sure the cauliflower and brussels sprouts are very dry.
  • Don't Overcrowd: Use a large baking sheet and spread in a single layer. Overcrowding steams the vegetables instead of roasting them.
  • Use High Heat: The 450°F oven temperature is essential for getting a crispy, caramelized exterior.
  • Make Marinating Optional: While the recipe allows marinating overnight, tossing the vegetables with oil and seasonings just before roasting will produce the crispiest result, as this avoids adding extra moisture.

Ingredients

Recipe yields 8 servings

Directions

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, combine cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. Add oil, garlic, rosemary and black pepper and toss well. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

  2. Step 2

    Preheat oven to 450°. On a large baking sheet with sides, spread vegetables in a single layer. Sprinkle the vegetables with the salt. Roast the vegetables about 20 to 30 minutes, or until they are crisp ­tender and just browned on the edges. Remove the vegetables from the oven and transfer to a bowl. Add bacon and toss to combine. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
1/2 cup

83
Calories
4
g
Fat
6
mg
Cholesterol
233
mg
Sodium
7
g
Carbs
1
g
Sat. Fat
3
g
Fiber
4
g
Protein

Flavor Variations & Air Fryer Method

  • Air Fryer Method: Toss vegetables with oil and seasonings (skip the overnight marinade for this method). Place in the air fryer basket at 390°F (199°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy.
  • Balsamic Variation: After roasting, toss the hot vegetables with 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze. 
  • Parmesan Variation: Add 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting, or toss with vegetables immediately after removing from the oven. (Be mindful of the parmesan sodium content if you’re watching your salt intake.)
  • Add Other Veggies: Feel free to add 1 cup of chopped broccoli, carrots, or red onion to the sheet pan. 

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Serving Ideas: This side dish pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, air-fried salmon, or heart-healthy pork tenderloin.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, which will make them soft.

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