Are you looking for a new ingredient to add to your recipes? Look no further than the beet! This vibrant root vegetable not only adds a pop of color to any dish, but it is also loaded with health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the world of beet recipes, from roasted beets to beet salads, and even beet juice and smoothie recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned beet lover or just trying it for the first time, we’ve got something for everyone.
First up, let’s dive into some of the incredible health benefits of beets. Did you know that beets can help lower blood pressure and improve circulation? Or that they can boost athletic performance and even help with weight loss? We’ll explore all of these benefits and more in our next section.
But we’re not stopping at just the health benefits. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite roasted beet recipes, perfect as a side dish or even a main course. And for those looking for a lighter option, we’ve got a variety of colorful and delicious beet salad recipes.
Looking for a way to hydrate and energize? Try out our beet juice and smoothie recipes, packed with nutrients and flavor. And for our vegan friends out there, we’ve got some amazing vegan beet recipes that will satisfy any craving.
But wait, there’s more! We’ll also explore baking with beets, beetroot recipes from around the world, special occasion beet recipes, and even answer some frequently asked questions about beets. So let’s get started and discover the wonderful world of beet recipes together!
Health Benefits of Beets
Beets are a nutrient powerhouse that offer a variety of health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider incorporating them into your diet:
- Rich in nutrients: Beets are packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, manganese, folate, and fiber.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The betaine in beets has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with conditions such as arthritis and other chronic diseases.
- Heart health: The nitrates in beets can help to lower blood pressure and improve overall heart health.
- Brain health: The nitrates in beets can also improve blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function.
- Detoxification: Beets are known to support liver function, aiding in detoxification of the body.
Overall, beets are a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet, offering a variety of health benefits. Whether you roast them, juice them, or simply enjoy them raw in a salad, beets are worth considering when it comes to your overall health and well-being.
Roasted Beet Recipes
Roasted beets are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy this root vegetable. They are easy to prepare, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute side dish for a dinner party.
Roasted Beet Salad
This roasted beet salad is a great way to enjoy beets in a fresh and healthy way. Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness, while the addition of greens and feta cheese adds a salty and creamy contrast.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 4 medium-sized beets, roasted and chopped | 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. |
| 4 cups of greens (like arugula or spinach) | 2. Wash and roast the beets for about 45 minutes, or until tender. |
| 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese | 3. Once the beets are cool enough to handle, chop them into bite-sized pieces. |
| 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts | 4. Arrange the greens on a large platter or individual plates. |
| 1/4 cup of balsamic vinaigrette | 5. Add the beets on top of the greens. |
6. Sprinkle the feta cheese, walnuts, and balsamic vinaigrette over the top of the beets.
Roasted Beet Hummus
This roasted beet hummus is a vibrant and colorful dip that is perfect for parties or as a healthy snack. It is easy to make and can be served with pita bread, carrots, or cucumber slices.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 2 medium-sized beets, roasted and peeled | 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. |
| 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed | 2. Wash and roast the beets for about 45 minutes, or until tender. |
| 2 cloves of garlic, minced | 3. Once the beets are cool enough to handle, peel them and cut them into small pieces. |
| 1/4 cup of tahini | 4. Add the roasted beets, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, and lemon juice to a food processor. |
| 1/4 cup of lemon juice | 5. Blend until smooth. |
| 2 tablespoons of olive oil | 6. Gradually add the olive oil and blend until the hummus is the desired consistency. |
| Salt and pepper to taste | 7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. |
8. Serve with pita bread, carrots, or cucumber slices.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Tart
This roasted beet and goat cheese tart is a beautiful and flavorful dish that is perfect for entertaining or as a special treat for yourself. The combination of roasted beets and tangy goat cheese is a classic pairing that is sure to impress.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 large beet, roasted and sliced | 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. |
| 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed | 2. Wash and roast the beet for about 45 minutes, or until tender. |
| 4 ounces of goat cheese, crumbled | 3. Once the beet is cool enough to handle, peel it and slice it into thin rounds. |
| 2 tablespoons of honey | 4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and transfer it to a baking sheet. |
| 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme | 5. Brush the honey over the pastry. |
| Salt and pepper to taste | 6. Arrange the sliced beets on the pastry, leaving a border around the edges. |
| 7. Sprinkle the goat cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper over the top of the beets. | |
| 8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. |
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Beet Salad Recipes
Beet salads are not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. They are perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or as a side dish. Plus, they are easy to prepare and can be customizable to suit your taste. Here are some amazing beet salad recipes for you to try:
1. Beet, Arugula, and Quinoa Salad
This salad is a perfect combination of beets, arugula, and quinoa. The flavors and textures complement each other, creating a delicious and nutritious salad. To make this salad, you will need:
| Ingredients: | 2 medium beets, peeled and sliced |
|---|---|
| 2 cups of arugula | |
| 1 cup of cooked quinoa | |
| 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts | |
| 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese | |
| 3 tablespoons of olive oil | |
| 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar | |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Roast the beets in the oven and cook the quinoa according to the instructions. Once both are ready, mix them in a bowl with the arugula, walnuts, and feta cheese. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well. Enjoy!
2. Beet, Orange, and Goat Cheese Salad
This salad is a burst of flavors and colors. The sweetness of the oranges and the tanginess of the goat cheese complement the earthy beets perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredients: | 2 medium beets, peeled and sliced |
|---|---|
| 2 oranges, peeled and sliced | |
| 1/4 cup of crumbled goat cheese | |
| 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios | |
| 2 tablespoons of olive oil | |
| 1 tablespoon of honey | |
| 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar | |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Roast the beets in the oven and prepare the oranges by peeling and slicing them. Arrange them on a plate with the beets. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and chopped pistachios on top. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve.
3. Beet and Avocado Salad
This salad is a simple yet delicious combination of beets and avocados. It’s perfect for a quick and easy lunch or as a side dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredients: | 2 medium beets, peeled and sliced |
|---|---|
| 1 avocado, peeled and sliced | |
| 1/4 cup of chopped almonds | |
| 1 tablespoon of olive oil | |
| 1 tablespoon of lemon juice | |
| Salt and pepper to taste |
Roast the beets in the oven and prepare the avocado by peeling and slicing it. Arrange them on a plate. Sprinkle the chopped almonds on top. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and serve.
These beet salad recipes are just a few examples of the many ways you can incorporate this nutritious vegetable into your diet. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique beet salad recipe!
Beet Juice Recipes
Beet juice is a delicious and nutritious way to incorporate beets into your diet. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Here are three easy beet juice recipes to try:
| Recipe | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Beet-Apple Juice | 2 beets, 2 apples, 1 lemon | 1. Wash and chop the ingredients. 2. Juice the beets, apples, and lemon together. 3. Serve and enjoy! |
| Beet-Carrot Juice | 2 beets, 4 carrots, 1 inch of ginger | 1. Wash and chop the ingredients. 2. Juice the beets, carrots, and ginger together. 3. Serve and enjoy! |
| Beet-Pineapple Juice | 2 beets, 1 cup of pineapple chunks, 1 inch of turmeric | 1. Wash and chop the ingredients. 2. Juice the beets, pineapple, and turmeric together. 3. Serve and enjoy! |
Remember to drink your beet juice immediately after making it for maximum nutritional benefits.
Beet Smoothie Recipes
Smoothies are a fantastic way to pack a lot of nutrition into a single serving. They’re also incredibly versatile and delicious, making them the perfect choice for any time of day. Beet smoothies, in particular, are an excellent way to incorporate beets into your diet in a fun and tasty way. Here are a few of our favorite beet smoothie recipes to try:
1. Beet Berry Smoothie
| Ingredients | Directions |
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This delicious smoothie is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the beets and berries, while the Greek yogurt adds protein for an extra healthy boost.
2. Spiced Beet Smoothie
| Ingredients | Directions |
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3. Tropical Beet Smoothie
| Ingredients | Directions |
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Try these delicious beet smoothies for a healthy and flavorful way to incorporate beets into your diet.
Vegan Beet Recipes
Embrace the healthy and delicious power of beets with these vegan recipes that are sure to impress. Whether you are vegan or just looking for a meat-free meal, these recipes will satisfy your taste buds and your health goals.
1. Beet Burger
This delicious beet burger is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal. Made with beets, chickpeas, and oats, it is packed with protein and fiber. Top it with lettuce, tomatoes, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying meal.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 cup cooked beets, mashed |
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2. Beet and Quinoa Salad
This colorful salad is a perfect mix of flavors and textures. The combination of beets, quinoa, and avocado makes it a healthy and satisfying meal that you can enjoy any time of the day.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 2 medium beets, peeled and diced |
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3. Beetroot Hummus
This delicious and healthy hummus is a perfect dip for veggies, crackers, and pita bread. The beets give it a vibrant color and a sweet, earthy flavor that is sure to impress.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 cup cooked beets, chopped |
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These vegan beet recipes are just the beginning of the many delicious and nutritious ways you can enjoy this powerful vegetable. Try them out and discover new ways to incorporate beets into your diet.
Beet Side Dish Recipes
Beets are a versatile root vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, including side dishes. Here are some delicious and easy beet side dish recipes that will make your meal complete.
1. Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This roasted beet and goat cheese salad is a perfect side dish for any occasion. Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness and pairs perfectly with tangy goat cheese.
| Ingredients | Directions |
|---|---|
| 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and diced | Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread the diced beets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender. Let cool. |
| 1/4 cup of crumbled goat cheese | In a large bowl, mix the roasted beets with crumbled goat cheese and a pinch of salt. Serve chilled or at room temperature. |
| 1 tablespoon of olive oil | |
| Salt and pepper, to taste |
2. Sweet and Spicy Beet Chips
These sweet and spicy beet chips make a perfect snack or side dish. They’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
| Ingredients | Directions |
|---|---|
| 3-4 medium-sized beets, thinly sliced | Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lay the beet slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. |
| 1 tablespoon of olive oil | Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping once halfway through. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Serve immediately. |
| 1 tablespoon of brown sugar | |
| 1/2 teaspoon of cumin | |
| 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper | |
| Salt and pepper, to taste |
3. Beet and Apple Salad
This beet and apple salad is a refreshing and colorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of sweet apples and earthy beets is a match made in heaven.
| Ingredients | Directions |
|---|---|
| 3-4 medium-sized beets, boiled and diced | Boil the beets until tender. Drain and let cool. Peel and dice the beets. |
| 2 medium-sized apples, diced | In a large bowl, mix the diced beets and apples. Add chopped walnuts and crumbled feta cheese. |
| 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts | In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. |
| 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese | Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature. |
| 1/4 cup of olive oil | |
| 2 tablespoons of lemon juice | |
| 1 tablespoon of honey | |
| 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard | |
| Salt and pepper, to taste |
These beet side dishes are easy to make and packed with flavor. Add some color to your plate and give these beet recipes a try!
Baking with Beets
Beets are not only a great addition to savory dishes, but they can also be used in baking! Here are some delicious ideas for incorporating beets into your baked goods:
| Recipe | Description |
|---|---|
| Beet Brownies | Using pureed beets in your classic brownie recipe can add a nutritious boost and a beautiful color. |
| Beet Cake | Baked goods don’t have to be overly sweet! Try using beets in a cake for a slightly sweet and earthy flavor. |
| Beet Muffins | Beets add a subtle sweetness and moisture to muffins. Plus, they make for a gorgeous pink color! |
Tip: When baking with beets, it’s important to note that they have a natural sweetness, so you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in your recipe.
Beetroot Recipes from Around the World
Beetroots are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a wide range of dishes from all around the world. Here are some delicious beetroot recipes from different cultures:
Russian Borscht
Borscht is a traditional soup from Russia that features beetroots as the main ingredient. It also includes other vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, as well as meat such as beef or pork. The soup is flavored with dill and served with sour cream.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 2 beetroots, peeled and grated | 1. In a large pot, sauté chopped onions and carrots in oil until soft. |
| 1 onion, chopped | 2. Add grated beetroots and sauté for another 5 minutes. |
| 2 carrots, chopped | 3. Add chopped cabbage, diced potatoes, and enough water or stock to cover everything. Bring to a boil and then lower the heat and let simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. |
| 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped | 4. Season with salt, pepper, and dill. Serve with sour cream. |
| 2 potatoes, diced | |
| 4 cups water or stock | |
| Salt, pepper, and dill to taste | |
| Sour cream for serving |
Indian Beetroot Curry
In India, beetroot is commonly used in curries. This vegan recipe features the earthiness of the beets combined with warming spices like cumin and coriander.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 3 beetroots, peeled and diced | 1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Allow them to sputter. |
| 1 onion, chopped | 2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. |
| 2 cloves of garlic, minced | 3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute. |
| 1 inch ginger, grated | 4. Add grated ginger and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft. |
| 2 tomatoes, diced | 5. Add diced beetroots, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and red chili powder. Mix well. |
| 1 tsp turmeric powder | 6. Add water and salt. Cover and cook until the beetroots are tender. |
| 1 tsp cumin powder | 7. Serve hot with rice or naan bread. |
| 1 tsp coriander powder | |
| 1/4 tsp red chili powder | |
| 1 cup water | |
| Salt to taste |
Mexican Beetroot Tacos
Tacos are a popular street food in Mexico, and in this recipe, beetroots are used as a vegan taco filling. The beetroots are roasted and then seasoned with spicy chipotle peppers.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 3 beetroots, peeled and sliced | 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. |
| 1 tbsp olive oil | 2. Toss the sliced beetroots with olive oil and spread them out on a baking sheet. |
| 1 tsp cumin | 3. Roast the beetroots for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly charred. |
| 1 tsp chili powder | 4. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, and salt. |
| 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped | 5. Warm up corn tortillas and fill them with the roasted beetroots. Top with the chipotle mixture and chopped cilantro and onion. |
| 1 lime, juiced | |
| 1/4 tsp salt | |
| Corn tortillas | |
| Fresh cilantro and chopped onion for serving |
These are just a few examples of the many ways beetroots can be used in cooking. Experiment with different recipes and see which ones you like best!
Beet Recipes for Special Occasions
Beets are a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into many special occasion dishes to add a pop of color and nutrition to the spread. Here are some creative and delicious ways to include beets in your next special event:
Beet and Goat Cheese Tart
This elegant tart is a stunning addition to any brunch or dinner party. Roasted beets and tangy goat cheese are a match made in heaven in this savory dish. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a touch of freshness.
Beet Hummus
For a unique and healthy appetizer, whip up some beet hummus. The bright pink color is sure to catch your guests’ eyes, and the earthy flavor pairs well with pita or veggie chips. Serve it up in a decorative bowl with some extra beets on top for a show-stopping presentation.
Beet Risotto
For a decadent and comforting side dish, try making beet risotto. The creamy rice is infused with roasted beets, giving it a rich, pink color and subtle sweetness. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a main course of roast chicken or beef.
Beet Chocolate Cake
Looking for a unique dessert that will impress your guests? Try baking a beet chocolate cake! The beets add a natural sweetness and moisture to the cake, while the chocolate hides any earthy flavors. Top it off with a light dusting of powdered sugar and some fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.
- Tip: Use beet juice to naturally dye frosting pink for an extra wow factor!
Beet Cured Salmon
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own beet cured salmon. This striking dish involves curing fresh salmon with a mixture of salt, sugar, and grated beets. The result is a beautiful pink and tender salmon that will impress any seafood lover.
Beet and Apple Salad
This refreshing salad is a perfect addition to any summer cookout or picnic. Crisp apples and juicy beets are tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and topped with crunchy walnuts. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
With these creative and delicious beet recipes, your special occasion dishes will be the talk of the town. Don’t be afraid to experiment with beets and make your own unique creations!
Frequently Asked Questions about Beets
Beets are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be used in a variety of ways. If you’re new to cooking with beets, you may have some questions about how to prepare them and incorporate them into your diet. Here are some frequently asked questions about beets and their answers:
What are the health benefits of beets?
Beets are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C. They are also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Studies show that beets can help lower blood pressure, improve exercise performance, and enhance brain function.
How do you prepare beets for cooking?
To prepare beets, start by trimming off the greens, leaving about an inch of stem attached to the beet. You can save the greens and use them in salads or sautés. Rinse the beets under cold water to remove any dirt, then either slice them into rounds or cubes, or leave them whole. If you’re roasting or boiling beets, you can leave the skin on; otherwise, you can peel it off with a vegetable peeler.
What are some easy ways to cook beets?
Roasting beets is a popular and delicious method of cooking them. Simply toss sliced or cubed beets in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven at 400°F for 30-40 minutes. Boiling beets is another simple option: place them in a pot of boiling water and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until tender. You can also steam beets, or grate them and use them raw in salads or slaws.
How can I incorporate beets into my diet?
There are many ways to enjoy the taste and health benefits of beets. Try adding roasted beets to salads, or using grated beets as a colorful garnish for soups or stews. You can also blend beets into smoothies or juices, or use them to make veggie burgers or hummus. And don’t forget about baking with beets – they make a great addition to cakes, muffins, and brownies!
Are there any precautions to take when eating beets?
Beets are generally safe and healthy for most people to eat. However, they are high in oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation in some individuals. If you have a history of kidney stones, you may want to limit your intake of beets or talk to your doctor before adding them to your diet. Beets can also cause urine and stool to turn pink or red, which is harmless but may be alarming if you’re not expecting it.
Can I freeze cooked beets?
Yes, you can freeze cooked beets for later use. Simply let them cool to room temperature, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. They will keep in the freezer for up to 6 months. To thaw them, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave them on a low setting until heated through.
How can I store raw beets?
Raw beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To keep them fresh, cut off the greens about an inch above the root, then place them in a plastic bag or airtight container in the crisper drawer of your fridge. Don’t wash them until you’re ready to use them, as excess moisture can cause them to spoil more quickly.