A meal that’s tasty, nutritious, cheap and easy to make – is hard to come by these days. But don’t lose hope; a meal meeting all those requirements is here.

Roasted Brussels sprouts and apple salad is an easy six- ingredient recipe. The portions can be changed with no extra work, making it simple to prepare an individual helping for lunch or as a healthy side dish for Thanksgiving dinner.

Not only will your taste buds be satisfied, but your body will thank you as well. Brussels sprouts are nutritious and known to protect from prostate, colon and endometrial cancer. Sprouts are also packed full of vitamin K which is known to help bone health and delay Alzheimer’s disease. They also deliver much needed vitamin B to help the body metabolize food but also help you cope with stress.

Although Brussels sprouts can be tricky to prepare and unusual in taste to some, how it is prepared makes all the difference. There are a few saving graces when it comes to this potent veggie. There are yummy ways to cook the sprouts which will leave you surprisingly fulfilled with the taste.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Apple Salad

1 pound Brussels sprouts (about four cups), washed and sliced in halves

1 Granny Smith apple, sliced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1⁄4 cup chopped walnuts

1⁄2 cup dried cranberries

1 tablespoon maple syrup

Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 400 F.

Slice the Brussels sprouts in half and place on a cookie sheet. Cut the apple in slices. I prefer thin slices for the salad but the size of the slices is up to you. Put apple slices on the cookie sheet with the Brussels sprouts.

Pour olive oil over the sprouts and apples to help with browning and to prevent sticking. Sprinkle sprouts and apples with a moderate amount of salt and pepper over the top for taste.

Place in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts have become bright green with a hint of brown and the apples are soft. Remove from oven.

Place in a bowl. Mix in walnuts and dried cranberries. Drizzle maple syrup over the top and mix well. It is now ready to serve.

Grab a fork and dig in. Preparation and cleanup are done in no time. The salad you have created is full of vibrant colors, making it pleasing to the eyes, taste buds and the body due to all of its wonderful flavors and

nutrients. Use this salad to change your family’s mind about Brussels sprouts by doubling the recipe and serving it as a delicious side to go with the turkey and a colorful addition to the table.

Alex Mecredy can be reached at [email protected]