When it comes to cooking with beets, many people think they’re limited to just a few familiar dishes like borscht or pickled beets. But beets are actually one of the most versatile and delicious ingredients in your pantry, waiting to be transformed into a wide range of sweet and savory recipes. From sweet treats like beet and chocolate cake to savory delights like roasted beet and goat cheese tart, there’s no end to the creative possibilities when it comes to cooking with beets.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 vibrant and deliciously unique beet recipes that are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a show-stopping main course, these recipes have got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the amazing world of beet-based cuisine!
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart is a perfect combination of earthy beets, tangy goat cheese, and flaky pastry. It’s an impressive yet easy-to-make appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the beets in a foil-lined baking dish for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Arrange the roasted beets on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around them.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese and chopped parsley.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beetroot Hummus with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and earthy beetroot hummus, perfectly paired with crispy pita chips. This easy-to-make recipe is a twist on the classic chickpea hummus.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and cooked
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked beetroot, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil. Continue blending until combined.
4. Serve the hummus with pita chips, warmed in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Beet and Citrus Salad with Feta
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the brightness of citrus, all tied together with tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for about 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine beet wedges, orange and grapefruit segments.
5. Crumble feta cheese over the top and drizzle with olive oil and vinegar.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (roasting beets)
Beet Risotto with Fresh Herbs
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the creamy texture of risotto, finished with a burst of fresh herbs. The result is a unique and flavorful side dish perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 large beet, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add diced beet and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
6. Remove from heat; stir in chopped parsley and chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Beet and Chocolate Cake
This cake combines the natural sweetness of beets with the richness of dark chocolate, resulting in a unique and delicious dessert. Perfect for those looking to add some extra nutrition and flavor to their baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and cooked
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 and 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cooked beets until smooth.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and cocoa powder.
4. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Fold in beet puree and butter until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiralized Beet Noodles with Garlic Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect as a main dish or as a side, these spiralized beet noodles are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spiralize the beets into noodle-like strands.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the spiralized beets to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet and Apple Smoothie Bowl
A vibrant and refreshing bowl that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the crunch of apples and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 large apple, cored and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine beets, apple, yogurt, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
3. Top with chopped nuts, if desired.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pickled Beet and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this vibrant and flavorful toast. The sweetness of the pickled beets pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the avocado, all on a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup pickled beets (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 slices of baguette
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese, fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), or lemon wedges for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
2. Spread mashed avocado on each slice.
3. Spoon pickled beets over the avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add optional toppings if desired (such as crumbled feta or chopped herbs).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beetroot Carpaccio with Arugula
This recipe showcases the vibrant flavors of beetroot and arugula, a classic Italian-inspired combination. Thinly sliced raw beets are paired with peppery arugula and topped with crumbled goat cheese for a refreshing and light salad.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the beetroot and slice them into thin rounds.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and honey.
3. Add the sliced beets to the dressing and toss gently to combine.
4. Divide the arugula among four plates.
5. Top each plate with 2-3 slices of beetroot carpaccio.
6. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the beetroot.
7. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if using.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep only)
Beet and Walnut Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional pesto pasta, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy richness of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 2 large beets
– 1/2 cup walnuts
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the beets in their skins for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Allow the beets to cool, then peel and slice into strips.
4. In a food processor, combine roasted beets, walnuts, parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Toss with beet-walnut pesto and serve.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Golden Beet Soup with Coconut Milk
This vibrant soup combines the natural sweetness of golden beets with the creamy richness of coconut milk, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large golden beets, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
4. Add roasted beets, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beet and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the nutty flavor of quinoa and a hint of smokiness from the peppers. Perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss beets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
4. Mix cooked quinoa with roasted beets, crumbled feta cheese (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beetroot Latkes with Sour Cream
These vibrant beetroot latkes are a delicious twist on the classic potato version, adding a pop of color and natural sweetness to your snack or meal. Serve them with a dollop of tangy sour cream for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated beetroot, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture is well combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the beetroot mixture into the oil.
5. Flatten the latkes slightly with a spatula and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Beet and Ginger Ice Cream
This vibrant ice cream is a unique twist on traditional flavors, with the sweetness of beets paired with the warmth of ginger. A perfect treat for adventurous palates!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 medium beets, peeled and cooked
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the cooked beets until smooth.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, beet puree, and grated ginger. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
5. Churn the mixture in the ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus churning time)
Beet and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
Elevate your flatbread game with this sweet and savory combination featuring roasted beets and caramelized onions. This recipe is perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large beet, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes and let rest for 10.
5. Roll out the dough to desired thickness.
6. Place beet slices on one half of the flatbread, leaving a small border.
7. Caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Spread caramelized onions on top of beets.
9. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and garnish with thyme leaves if desired.
10. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beetroot and Chickpea Burger
Get ready to elevate your burger game with this vibrant and nutritious recipe! A perfect combination of earthy beetroot, nutty chickpeas, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beetroot, cooked and peeled
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mash the cooked beetroot with a fork until coarsely chopped.
3. Add chickpeas, breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Divide mixture into 2 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
5. Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until slightly charred.
6. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, and avocado.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beet and Orange Glazed Salmon
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets and oranges with the richness of salmon, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large beets, peeled and cooked
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cooked beets until smooth.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, mustard, and orange segments.
4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the beet puree over the salmon, leaving a 1-inch border around each piece.
6. Drizzle the honey-orange mixture evenly over the beets.
7. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Beet and Dark Chocolate Truffles
These decadent truffles combine the earthy sweetness of beets with the richness of dark chocolate, creating a unique and tantalizing flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and pureed beets
– 8 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the beet puree and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Whisk the honey into the melted chocolate until combined.
4. Fold the beet mixture into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
6. Roll the truffle mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe is chilled rather than cooked.
Summary
Discover a world of vibrant flavors with these 18 creative beet recipes! From savory to sweet, these unique dishes showcase the versatility of beets. Roasted beets meet goat cheese tart, while beet hummus and pita chips offer a satisfying snack. Beet-based salads, risottos, and noodles provide a healthy dose of color and nutrition. And for dessert? Beet cakes, smoothie bowls, and even truffles! This collection of recipes will inspire you to get creative with this mighty root vegetable.
