Brussels Sprouts with Mustard Butter

Serves 4 to 6

I love Brussels sprouts and make them often, using fresh or frozen depending on the time of year or what I have on hand. This is a quick and easy recipe for sprouts in which you can use either. Make it for a family meal, special occasion or entertaining. For additional ideas for Brussels sprouts, see the similar and related recipes.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter, preferably unsalted, softened
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1-1/2 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts (see notes below)
• 2 large cloves garlic, peeled
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cream the butter with the mustard and parsley. Rinse the Brussels sprouts, remove the stem end and mark an 'x' on the stem end with a sharp knife. Add to lightly salted boiling water with the garlic cloves and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well. Remove the garlic cloves, mash with a fork and add to the butter mixture. Place hot sprouts in a serving bowl and top with the soft butter mixture, salt and pepper. Toss gently until the butter has melted and coated the sprouts. Serve immediately.

Notes: If using frozen sprouts, use 1 pound. Cook with the garlic according to package directions for the microwave or stovetop. Drain well and proceed with the instructions above.