10 Best Beets Recipes: Delicious and Nutritious Ways to Enjoy Beets

Beets are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can bring vibrant color and unique flavor to many dishes. From salads to hearty entrees, there are numerous ways to prepare and enjoy this root vegetable. In this article, I will share the 10 best beet recipes that showcase their delicious potential.

Whether you are a long-time beet lover or trying them for the first time, you’ll find options that are simple and satisfying. These recipes are designed to highlight the natural sweetness and earthy taste of beets, making them a delightful addition to your meals.

1. Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted beet salad is a delicious and healthy dish that showcases the natural sweetness of beets. Beets are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They add vibrant color to any meal.

Making this salad is quite easy and requires just a few steps. First, I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C).

Next, I wash and trim the beets, then wrap them in aluminum foil. This helps them cook evenly. I place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast them for about 45-60 minutes, until they are tender.

Once cooked, I let the beets cool for a bit before peeling off the skins. After that, I slice or cube the beets.

To create the salad, I combine the roasted beets with mixed greens, goat cheese, and walnuts. For dressing, I use olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.

This salad is perfect as a side dish or a main course. It is full of flavor and is easy to prepare.

2. Beetroot Soup

Beetroot soup, also known as borscht, is a flavorful dish made primarily from beets. It’s known for its vibrant color and nutritious benefits. I find it easy to prepare, making it a great option for any meal.

To make beetroot soup, I follow these simple steps:

1. Ingredients: I need 3 medium-sized beetroots, 1 onion, 2 carrots, 3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, and seasoning like salt and pepper.
2. Preparation: First, I peel and chop the beetroots, onion, and carrots.
3. Cooking: Next, I heat a pot over medium heat and sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes. Then, I add the carrots and beets, cooking for another 5 minutes.
4. Simmering: I pour in the broth and bring it to a boil. After boiling, I reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the beets are tender.
5. Blending: Finally, I blend the soup until smooth. I can adjust the seasoning and serve hot, often with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top.

This soup is not only healthy but also offers a delightful taste that I enjoy.

3. Beet Hummus

Beet hummus is a flavorful twist on traditional hummus. It blends the earthiness of beets with the creaminess of chickpeas. This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing because of its vibrant pink color.

Making beet hummus is easy and quick. I enjoy preparing it as a dip or spread. To start, I boil 2 medium-sized beets until they are tender, about 30-40 minutes. After cooling, I peel and chop them.

In a food processor, I combine the cooked beets with 1 can of drained chickpeas, 2 tablespoons of tahini, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, and 1 clove of garlic.

I blend everything until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, I can add a little water to reach my desired consistency. I season with salt and pepper to taste.

My beet hummus is now ready! I love serving it with pita bread or fresh vegetable sticks. It’s a nutritious and delicious option for any gathering.

4. Beet and Goat Cheese Tart

A Beet and Goat Cheese Tart is a delicious dish that combines the earthiness of beets with the creaminess of goat cheese. This tart is perfect for a light lunch or an elegant appetizer.

Making this tart is relatively easy and requires just a few simple steps. First, I prepare the crust by mixing flour, butter, and a pinch of salt.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough and place it in a tart pan.
3. Bake the crust for 10-15 minutes until lightly golden.

While the crust is baking, I can prepare the filling.

1. Roast 2-3 medium beets until tender, about 45 minutes.
2. Allow them to cool, then peel and slice them.
3. In a bowl, mix 8 ounces of goat cheese with some herbs, salt, and pepper.

Once the crust is ready, I spread the goat cheese mixture evenly.

1. Layer the sliced beets on top.
2. Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs.

I bake the assembled tart for another 20-25 minutes. This tart is not only visually appealing but also a great balance of flavors.

5. Beetroot Smoothie

A beetroot smoothie is a nutrient-rich drink made primarily from beets. It is often blended with fruits and vegetables for added flavor and health benefits. Beets are known for their vibrant color and earthy taste.

Making a beetroot smoothie is quite easy. I usually prepare it in under 10 minutes. This drink can serve as a great breakfast or a refreshing snack.

Here’s a simple recipe:

1. Ingredients:
   • 1 medium beetroot, boiled and peeled
   • 1 banana
   • 1 cup of spinach or kale
   • 1 cup of almond milk or yogurt
   • Optional: honey or maple syrup for sweetness
2. Steps:
   • Chop the beetroot and banana into smaller pieces.
   • Add the chopped beetroot, banana, spinach, and almond milk to a blender.
   • Blend until smooth. If it’s too thick, add more almond milk.
   • Taste and add honey or maple syrup if desired.

I enjoy this smoothie for its earthy sweetness and health benefits. It provides a good boost of vitamins and minerals.

6. Beet Pasta

Beet pasta is a colorful and nutritious dish that adds a unique flavor to any meal. It combines traditional pasta with beetroot, providing a vibrant hue and extra health benefits.

Making beet pasta is simple and convenient. To start, I prepare the dough by mixing flour with beet juice. This enriches the pasta with the natural sweetness and nutrients of beets.

Here are the basic steps to create beet pasta:

1. Ingredients: I use 2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of beet juice.
2. Mix: I combine the flour and beet juice in a bowl until a dough forms.
3. Knead: I knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Rest: I let the dough rest for 30 minutes under a cloth.
5. Roll: I roll the dough thinly and cut it into my desired shapes.
6. Cook: I boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta for about 3-4 minutes.

This beet pasta can be paired with various sauces, like a light garlic olive oil or creamy cheese sauce. The bright color makes it a stunning addition to any plate.

7. Pickled Beets

Pickled beets are a delicious way to enjoy this nutritious root vegetable. They offer a tangy, sweet flavor and are packed with vitamins and minerals. Making pickled beets is quite easy and requires only a few steps.

First, I start by cooking the beets. I boil them for about 30-40 minutes until they are tender. Then, I let them cool and peel off the skin.

Next, I slice the beets into thin rounds or cubes. This step helps them absorb the pickling solution better.

For the pickling mixture, I combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices in a saucepan. I heat this mixture until the sugar dissolves.

Once the mixture is ready, I place the sliced beets in clean jars. I then pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, making sure they are fully covered.

Finally, I seal the jars and let them sit in the refrigerator. They taste even better after a few days as the flavors meld together. This simple recipe offers a tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish.

Making pickled beets is a straightforward process that adds zing to any meal. Enjoy!

8. Beet and Feta Wrap

I enjoy making a Beet and Feta Wrap for a quick and healthy meal. It combines the earthy flavor of beets with the creamy taste of feta cheese. This wrap is not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

To make the wrap, I start with fresh beets. First, I boil or roast them until tender, which takes about 30-40 minutes. Once cooked, I peel and slice the beets into thin pieces.

Next, I take a large tortilla or wrap. I spread a layer of hummus or tzatziki for extra flavor. Then, I add the sliced beets along with crumbled feta cheese, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

I roll the wrap tightly and cut it in half. It’s ready to serve. This dish is filling, nutritious, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The combination of flavors is refreshing and satisfying.

Overall, I find the Beet and Feta Wrap an excellent way to enjoy the benefits of beets in my meals.

9. Beet Juice

Beet juice is a nutritious drink made from beetroots. It is known for its vibrant color and earthy flavor. I enjoy making beet juice because it is simple and quick.

To make beet juice, I gather fresh beets, wash them thoroughly, and peel them. I generally use about 2-3 medium-sized beets for one serving of juice. I then chop the beets into smaller pieces for easier blending.

In my blender, I add the chopped beets along with 1-2 cups of water. Blending helps to extract the juice more effectively. Once blended, I strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the juice from the pulp.

I usually serve the juice chilled or over ice. Sometimes, I mix it with other fruits or vegetables like apples or carrots for added flavor. Beet juice is not only refreshing but also provides health benefits.

10. Beet Pizza

Beet pizza is a unique dish that combines colorful beets with the classic flavors of pizza. Beets add a slightly sweet, earthy taste that pairs well with various toppings. It’s a fun way to enjoy vegetables.

Making beet pizza is relatively easy. I find it simple even for beginners. The steps include preparing the dough and roasting the beets.

Here’s how to make it:

1. Prepare the Dough: Use your favorite pizza dough recipe. Roll it out to your preferred thickness.
2. Roast the Beets: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for about 45 minutes. Once cooled, slice them thinly.
3. Assemble the Pizza: Spread tomato sauce over the rolled dough. Layer with roasted beet slices, goat cheese, and fresh herbs like thyme.
4. Bake: Place the pizza in the oven at 475°F (245°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden.
5. Serve: Let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors.

This beet pizza not only looks great but also brings a healthy twist to a favorite dish.

What Are The Nutritional Benefits Of Beets?

Beets are packed with nutrients that support overall health. They contain vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants, all contributing to their many health benefits.

Which Vitamins And Minerals Are Found In Beets?

Beets are rich in several essential vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of:

• Folate: Important for cell division and DNA synthesis.
• Vitamin C: Aids in tissue repair and boosts the immune system.
• Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
• Manganese: Supports metabolism and bone health.

In addition to these vitamins, beets contain small amounts of calcium, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients help maintain healthy bodily functions and contribute to a balanced diet. Including beets in my meals can help me meet my daily nutritional needs.

How Do Beets Exhibit Antioxidant Properties?

Beets are known for their high antioxidant content. They contain betalains, which give beets their vibrant color and provide significant health benefits. These antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress.

The primary antioxidants in beets include:

• Beta-cyanins: Help lower inflammation and improve liver function.
• Beta-xanthins: Support detoxification processes.

These antioxidants work together to promote heart health and may lower the risk of chronic diseases. Including beets in my diet is a tasty way to boost my antioxidant intake and protect my body.

What Are The Best Cooking Techniques For Beets?

There are several effective ways to cook beets that enhance their natural flavors and textures. I will cover roasting, which brings out sweetness, and boiling or steaming, which retains nutrients and color.

What Are Some Tips For Roasting Beets?

Roasting beets is a great way to deepen their flavors. I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).

First, wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, trim the tops and tails but leave the skins on to prevent losing moisture.

Next, I wrap each beet in aluminum foil. I find this method helps them cook evenly. Place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet for about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on their size.

To check for doneness, I insert a fork; it should slide in easily. Once cooked, let the beets cool before peeling away the skins, which come off easily.

How Can You Boil And Steam Beets Effectively?

Boiling or steaming beets is quick and keeps them vibrant. For boiling, I fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt.

After washing the beets, I place them in the pot and bring the water to a boil. I cook them for about 30 to 45 minutes, until they are fork-tender.

For steaming, I use a steaming basket over boiling water. This method takes about 20 to 30 minutes and tends to preserve more nutrients.

Regardless of the method, I let the beets cool and peel them afterward. Both techniques work well for salads or side dishes, making beets an easy addition to any meal.