Are you ready to get creative in the kitchen with a vibrant ingredient that’s perfect for every season? Look no further than beets! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these stunning root vegetables are sure to add some excitement to your meals. From sweet and earthy to tangy and bold, beets offer an incredible range of flavors and textures to experiment with.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the seasons, exploring 18 mouthwatering beet recipes that showcase the versatility of this incredible ingredient. From salads and soups to main courses and desserts, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So get ready to be inspired, and let’s dive into the world of vibrant beets!
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a bed of fresh arugula. A perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add roasted beet wedges on top of the salad.
7. If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Beetroot Hummus with Pita Chips
Add a pop of color and flavor to your snack game with this vibrant Beetroot Hummus, served with crispy Pita Chips. This twist on the classic hummus recipe uses roasted beetroot for a sweet and earthy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup roasted beetroot (see note)
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Pita Chips or flatbread for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the beetroot: Wrap beetroot in foil and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, beetroot, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt.
4. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve with Pita Chips or flatbread.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Borscht with Fresh Dill and Sour Cream
This vibrant beet-based soup is a staple of Eastern European cuisine, perfect for any occasion. Our recipe adds a burst of freshness from dill and a tangy kick from sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill leaves for garnish
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. Roast beets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
3. Add carrots, broth, water, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes.
4. Remove beets from the oven and let cool. Peel and dice.
5. Add diced beets to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill leaves and a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beet and Arugula Pizza with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of sweet beets, peppery arugula, and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 medium beets, roasted and peeled
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread roasted beets over the dough, leaving a small border.
4. Top with arugula leaves.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the arugula.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and crumbled goat cheese (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Golden Beet and Citrus Carpaccio
This vibrant dish is perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as an impressive appetizer. Thinly sliced golden beets, oranges, and grapefruits come together in harmony to create a sweet and tangy masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 2 large golden beets
– 1 orange, peeled
– 1 grapefruit, peeled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the golden beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Peel the roasted beets and slice them into thin strips.
4. Cut the orange and grapefruit into thin slices.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
6. Arrange the beet, orange, and grapefruit slices on a platter or individual plates.
7. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beet and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of beets with the nutty flavor of quinoa. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 medium beets, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine quinoa, beets, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pickled Beets with Star Anise
Pickled Beets with Star Anise Recipe
Sweet and tangy pickled beets infused with the warm, licorice flavor of star anise make a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh beets, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1 cup (250ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp pickling salt
– 1 star anise pod, cracked open
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beets and cold water to cover. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the beets to rehydrate.
2. Drain and rinse the beets under cold running water.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, pickling salt, and star anise pod. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack the beets into clean glass jars or containers with tight-fitting lids. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
5. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Beets will keep for up to 6 months in the fridge.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Beet and Walnut Pesto Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy richness of walnuts, all wrapped up in a creamy pesto sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 medium beets, roasted and peeled
– 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted beets, toasted walnuts, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and pesto sauce. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the beet-walnut mixture to cooked pasta, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Beet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This unique cake combines the natural sweetness of beets with the richness of dark chocolate, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup cooked and pureed beets
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, beets, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting.
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Beet and Carrot Slaw with Lemon Dressing
A vibrant and refreshing slaw that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and grated
– 4 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated beets and carrots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the beet and carrot mixture, and toss until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation time), plus chilling time
Beetroot Risotto with Parmesan
This vibrant Beetroot Risotto is a unique twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring sweet roasted beets and creamy Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 medium beetroot, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss beetroot with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large saucepan, heat broth over low heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add roasted beetroot, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until rice is cooked and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Beet and Chickpea Burger with Avocado
This unique burger combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a crispy patty and topped with fresh avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium beet, cooked and peeled
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices whole grain bread, toasted
– Avocado spread (see below)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a food processor, combine beet, chickpeas, breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Form into 2 patties. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Assemble burgers by spreading avocado on toasted bread, topping with a patty, and adding lettuce and tomato if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado Spread:
– Mash 1 ripe avocado with 1 tablespoon lime juice, salt to taste.
Beet and Apple Smoothie with Ginger
A refreshing and healthy blend of sweet beets, crisp apples, and spicy ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 large apple, cored and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Honey to taste (optional)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped beets, apple, and ginger.
2. Add the Greek yogurt and almond milk. Blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey if desired.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again to combine.
6. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on blending time)
Beet and Feta Tart with Thyme
This elegant tart combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of crumbly feta cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust infused with the warmth of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, toss beet slices with olive oil, honey, and salt. Spread evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese and thyme leaves over the beets.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling to form a crust. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for golden brown color.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is tender.
Beetroot Latkes with Horseradish Sauce
Experience the sweet and spicy combination of beetroot latkes with a tangy horseradish sauce, perfect for a unique snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Horseradish sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine beetroot, onion, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1-2 cm of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the beetroot mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula to form latkes.
4. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Horseradish Sauce:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with the beetroot latkes.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes for frying the latkes, plus extra time if making the horseradish sauce from scratch.
Beet and Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Beet and Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk!
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup red or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the chopped beets and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Beet and Orange Salad with Mint
This refreshing salad combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tanginess of oranges and the cooling flavor of mint, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 navel orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Peel the roasted beets and slice into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, combine the beet wedges, orange segments, and mint leaves.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Beet and Dark Chocolate Muffins
Rich, moist, and decadent, these beet and dark chocolate muffins are a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and cooked
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cooked beets until smooth.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted chocolate chips. Add the beet puree and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to be inspired by the vibrant flavors of beetroot! This article presents 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of beets, from sweet treats like Chocolate Beet Cake and Beet and Dark Chocolate Muffins, to savory dishes like Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad and Beet and Chickpea Burger. Discover refreshing salads, comforting soups, and creative twists on classic dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and add some color to your meals.
