9 Best Substitutes for Brussel Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are nutrient-dense cruciferous vegetables that pack a punch in both flavor and health benefits. Characterized by their small, cabbage-like appearance, they belong to the Brassicaceae family, sharing lineage with other greens like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. Known for their slightly bitter taste and a nutty, earthy undertone, they are a staple in various cuisines. Whether steamed, sautéed, or roasted, Brussels sprouts have the potential to be the star of your plate. Often, they are the unsung heroes of holiday meals, dinner sides, and even some health-focused salads and bowls.

However, for some, Brussels sprouts may be less appealing due to their distinct flavor profile, or they might simply be inaccessible or too expensive in certain regions. Others may seek alternatives due to dietary restrictions or allergies. Whether you are in search of a last-minute swap or seeking to diversify your vegetable repertoire, this guide offers a comprehensive overview of the best substitutes for Brussels sprouts, analyzed through the lens of texture, flavor, and nutritional value. We cover a wide array of options that not only serve as suitable stand-ins but also enhance the overall quality and nutrition of your meals.

What are Brussel Sprouts?

Brussels sprouts belong to the Brassicaceae family, a lineage that boasts a number of cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. These miniature cabbages are often consumed steamed, roasted, or sautéed and offer a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Often, Brussels sprouts have a slightly bitter taste, which can be offset with proper cooking techniques and complementary flavors like bacon or maple syrup.

Quick View of Substitutes For Brussel Sprouts

• Cabbage
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Green Beans
• Spinach
• Asparagus
• Zucchini
• Kale
• Collard Greens

Best Substitutes For Brussel Sprouts

Perhaps you’re scrambling to adapt a recipe last-minute, or maybe you’re deliberately seeking alternative greens. Either way, here are some substitutes that bring their unique flair while filling the Brussels sprouts-sized hole in your dish.

Cabbage

Ah, cabbage—a distant cousin to Brussels sprouts, but arguably the closest match in terms of taste and texture. Cabbage can be cooked in a multitude of ways: sautéed, roasted, or even braised. Like Brussels sprouts, it has a mild, earthy flavor and a delightful crunch when cooked properly.

Cabbage can be easily shredded or chopped into smaller pieces, which makes it ideal for quick stir-fries or for adding a bit of bite to soups and stews. Plus, it’s one of the most economical vegetables you can buy, adding an extra layer of practicality.

In terms of nutritional content, cabbage packs a healthy punch too, filled with fiber, vitamins C and K, and other essential nutrients. To truly mimic the Brussels sprouts experience, try roasting wedges or slices of cabbage until they become crispy and caramelized at the edges.

Broccoli

Next in line is broccoli—a more popular but equally nutritious cruciferous option. You may not think it at first glance, but broccoli’s florets offer a texture akin to that of Brussels sprouts, especially when roasted or steamed.

Broccoli has a more complex flavor profile; it’s a bit sweeter but maintains a slight bitterness, making it a well-rounded substitute. It’s a versatile vegetable, perfect for everything from raw salads to cooked casseroles.

If you’re concerned about the nutrient intake, fear not. Broccoli is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It’s a little less dense than Brussels sprouts, making it easier to eat in large quantities. Also, the stalks can be utilized in various recipes, reducing waste and stretching your dollar.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower has been having its moment in the culinary spotlight, featured in everything from pizza crusts to rice substitutes. It’s a cruciferous vegetable like Brussels sprouts and carries a mild, slightly nutty flavor.

The texture of cauliflower is softer than that of Brussels sprouts, but it can mimic the mouthfeel when roasted or sautéed. You’ll also find that cauliflower takes on the flavors of the ingredients around it, making it a highly adaptable choice.

Nutritionally, cauliflower is slightly less robust than Brussels sprouts but still offers a good amount of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Its light color might deceive you into thinking it’s less nutritious, but don’t be fooled; it’s a worthy substitute on both culinary and health fronts.

Green Beans

Stepping away from the cruciferous family, we encounter green beans. These slender vegetables offer a crisp texture and a subtly sweet taste. However, their elongated shape means they won’t entirely mimic the roundness of Brussels sprouts.

Green beans work well when steamed, sautéed, or grilled. They are highly flexible, effortlessly sliding into a variety of culinary settings—from casseroles to side dishes. Plus, they hold up well when cooked, maintaining a pleasing bite.

While green beans may lack some of the bitterness associated with Brussels sprouts, they still offer valuable nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and folic acid. Their lighter flavor might even win over the Brussels sprouts skeptics in your family.

Spinach

If leafy greens are more your style, consider replacing Brussels sprouts with spinach. It’s quite a shift in texture and form but brings its own unique offerings to the table. Spinach has a natural earthiness coupled with a slight sweetness, especially when cooked.

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. It wilts considerably when cooked, so you’ll need a larger volume to match the heft of Brussels sprouts.

Whether sautéed with garlic, tossed in salads, or blended into smoothies, spinach is a versatile alternative. Its milder taste makes it more universally appealing, potentially drawing in those who steer clear of Brussels sprouts’ stronger flavor.

Asparagus

Asparagus might not be the first vegetable that comes to mind, but its distinct, somewhat grassy flavor can be an exciting alternative. It has a crunch similar to Brussels sprouts and works well when roasted, grilled, or steamed.

Much like Brussels sprouts, asparagus has a flavor that becomes more pronounced when caramelized. A sprinkle of Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon can enhance its unique qualities.

In the nutritional department, asparagus offers fiber, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and even protein. Plus, it’s a source of antioxidants and has fewer calories per serving, making it a leaner option.

Zucchini

Zucchini is a summer squash that’s light in flavor and highly adaptable, making it a practical replacement for Brussels sprouts. Unlike Brussels sprouts, it has a higher water content, giving it a softer texture when cooked.

You can grill, sauté, or even roast zucchini. When roasted, it takes on a sweeter, slightly nutty flavor, quite different from the stronger taste profile of Brussels sprouts. It’s versatile, and its mildness can be advantageous when preparing dishes where Brussels sprouts may overpower other flavors.

Zucchini offers a moderate level of nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. It’s a less dense option but still provides valuable nutrients, making it a suitable alternative for those looking for something lighter.

Kale

Another leafy green option is kale, a vegetable that’s become almost ubiquitous in health food circles. Kale has a strong, slightly bitter flavor, similar to Brussels sprouts, and can be prepared in numerous ways—sautéed, steamed, or even turned into crispy chips.

The texture of kale varies depending on its preparation. When sautéed, it retains some chewiness; when baked into chips, it takes on a crunchy texture. Its bold flavor can stand up to strong ingredients like garlic or spicy peppers, making it a robust substitute.

Nutritionally, kale is a rockstar. It’s incredibly high in vitamins A, C, and K, and it offers a decent amount of fiber and protein. It’s a nutrient-dense alternative, making it not just a culinary match but a healthful one too.

Collard Greens

Last but certainly not least, collard greens offer a somewhat similar texture to Brussels sprouts and share their cruciferous roots. They are generally milder in flavor but have a slight peppery kick that can be both surprising and delightful.

Collard greens are typically sautéed or simmered for extended periods, often with added fats like bacon or butter to enhance their flavor. While they don’t offer the same crispy texture that you’d get with roasted Brussels sprouts, their leafy, chewy texture brings its own kind of satisfaction.

Nutritionally, collard greens are high in calcium, fiber, and multiple vitamins. Their lower calorie count makes them an excellent option for those watching their weight. So, while they may not be a perfect match, they bring their own set of advantages to the table.

Substitutes for Brussel Sprouts: Nutritional Profile

Vegetable	Gluten	Calories (per 1/4 cup)	Fat (g)	Carbs (g)	Fiber (g)	Protein (g)
Cabbage	No	7	0	2	1	0
Broccoli	No	10	0	2	1	1
Cauliflower	No	7	0	1	1	1
Green Beans	No	10	0	2	1	0
Spinach	No	7	0	1	1	1
Asparagus	No	12	0	2	1	1
Zucchini	No	5	0	1	0	0
Kale	No	8	0	1	1	1
Collard Greens	No	11	0	2	1	1

Conclusion

So there you have it—a detailed exploration of various vegetables that can take the place of Brussels sprouts in your culinary endeavors. Whether you’re dodging Brussels sprouts due to personal preferences or nutritional needs, these substitutes each bring their unique qualities to the table. Not only can they imitate the texture and taste of Brussels sprouts to some extent, but they also offer a diverse range of nutrients. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll stumble upon a new favorite vegetable in the process.