roasted brussel sprout chips and centers

this is so yummy and so easy!

I buy the microwave in the bag brussel sprouts because depending on the time of the year I can find them at the 99 cent store for a great deal!  I do find that raw works a bit better then frozen, but frozen did work just didn't yield as much, so it is still an option if fresh are hard to find.

I start by cooking them about 1/2 way, so if you got a microwave bag of them, follow the directions and cook about half way then let them cool.  If you got raw ones, steam until almost fork tender but not done and let them cool.

Buffalo shrimp and Brussel Chips

Making the chips:
Heat oven to 425 and get a baking sheet ready.  Cut the ends of the sprouts to loosen the leaves.  Slowly separate the outer leaves of the sprouts and place on the baking sheet.  you should be able to get a few off each sprout depending on the size and eventually you will get to a center part where it is harder to separate the leaves.  These are what I call the centers, put them to the side for another yummy snack or side dish which is detailed below.

Once you have all the leaves pulled off, lay them on a single layer on cookie sheets, top with salt and pepper or seasoning of your choice (I like chili powder and cayenne for a kick!) and spray very lightly with non-fat cooking spray to make them brown.  They will take about 10-15 minutes depending on the oven heat and how wet the leaves are.  Keep an eye on them so they don't burn.  They will get nice and crispy like chips.  They go great with the chicken nugget recipe I posted earlier...

Making the centers:
take the center portion of the sprout and cut it in half.  season with whatever you like and slightly spray with cooking spray to help them brown.  you can place them on the same sheet as the chips if you want and just remove the chips when they are done and leave the center for another few minutes.  they take about 15-20 minutes depending on your oven and how crispy you like them.  They make a great snack or added topping to a salad to give you a bit of extra texture and crunch!

If not on HCG diet:
My recipe for this is the same except normally I drizzle with olive oil or even fry the chips.  If you reduce some balsamic vinegar to thicken it and drizzle that and some Parmesan cheese over the chips it is amazing!