Why, you say? Why? Why do I have to eat this super-weird Super Food that isn't a regular on my shopping list?

How about because it is a rich source of folate (folic acid), so it will help you prevent birth defects if you eat it while pregnant. They contain lots of vitamin K and vitamin C, for beautiful skin and increased immune function. Haven't convinced you yet? Well, OK, eating Brussels sprouts can actually help prevent cancer, particularly of the colon. Still not enough? They help increase the ability of your cells to detoxify and regenerate. And they really do taste delicious, especially when you know how to cook them right.
Our favorite way? Roasted in the oven, tossed with olive oil, sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. We use convection roast at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes, flipping once. If you've got a cookie sheet, you can do this one; it's a no-brainer. The roasting brings out the natural sweetness in this veggie and I seriously pop them like candy when they are cooked this way.

There is something about the taste of Brussels sprouts that screams out to be paired with maple syrup. Saute them in a bit of organic butter, drizzle on a bit of maple syrup at the end and you have an easy and delicious side dish.

If you steam Brussels sprouts, you can use them in salads (how about with some slivered almonds, dried cranberries and blue cheese crumbles, with a mustard maple vinaigrette?) or dip them (along with baby carrots, red pepper sticks, etc.) into your favorite hummus.

Don't like any of my ideas? Don't knock them 'til you've tried them, but if all else fails, an internet search for Brussels sprouts recipes will bring more luscious ways to prepare Brussels sprouts to your computer screen . . . and hopefully to your dinner table.

What are some of your favorite ways to use Brussels sprouts? Or, are you going to try a new way to prepare them?