The humble beetroot – a staple in many cuisines around the world. While it may not be as flashy as some other vegetables, beets are packed with nutrients and have a unique flavor that adds depth to any dish. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a show-stopping side, there’s no denying the versatility of beets.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 simple and easy beet recipes that will take your cooking game to the next level. From savory salads and hearty soups, to sweet treats and refreshing drinks, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of beets!
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe
A sweet and tangy salad that combines the earthy flavors of roasted beets with the creaminess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz. goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
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 small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, chopped parsley, and dressing. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Beet Hummus
This vibrant dip combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the creamy richness of traditional hummus. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, it’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let beets cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and olive oil.
4. Add roasted beet pieces to the blender and blend until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serve with:
Pita chips, vegetables, crackers, or as a dip for your favorite dippers!
Beet and Carrot Smoothie
Start your day with a vibrant and nutritious smoothie that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the natural crunch of carrots.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped beets and carrots.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until well combined.
Cooking Time: None (blending only)
Simple Beetroot Soup
Beets are a nutrient-rich ingredient that can add a pop of color and flavor to many dishes. This simple beetroot soup recipe is a great way to incorporate beets into your meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cream or Greek yogurt for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped beetroot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the broth and water, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beets are tender.
6. Purée the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Pickled Beets
Add a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to your meals with this simple recipe for Quick Pickled Beets. Perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches, salads, and more.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves or other herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
4. Peel the beets and slice into wedges or cubes.
5. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add the pickled beets to the saucepan and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re coated in the pickling liquid.
7. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Beet and Arugula Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of sweet beets, peppery arugula, and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 medium beets, roasted and thinly sliced
– 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the roasted beet slices on top of the goat cheese.
5. Sprinkle the arugula leaves over the beets.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and black pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Beet Chips
Transform humble beets into a delicious snack with this simple recipe for baked beet chips. The natural sweetness of the beets pairs perfectly with the crispy texture, making them a tasty and healthy option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large or 3 small beets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the beets and slice them into thin rounds.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Arrange the beet slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and any additional seasonings desired.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the beets are tender and crispy.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet and Quinoa Salad
A vibrant and nutritious salad that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the nutty flavor of quinoa, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss beets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted beets, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Easy Beet Pancakes
Brighten up your breakfast with these vibrant beet pancakes! Made with roasted beets and a hint of sweetness, they’re perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup cooked and mashed beets (roasted at 400°F for 45 minutes)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, mashed beets, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add milk and melted butter; stir until smooth.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for another minute.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Beet and Feta Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the earthy flavor of roasted beets with the tanginess of crumbled feta cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt. Add sliced beets and toss to coat.
4. Arrange beet slices in a single layer on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over beets.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush top with egg wash and sprinkle with salt.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Beet Pasta Sauce
This vibrant beet sauce adds a pop of color and flavor to any pasta dish. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy sauce that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and dice them into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted beets, olive oil, garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve the beet sauce over cooked pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Beet and Apple Slaw
This sweet and tangy slaw combines the natural sweetness of beets and apples with a hint of spice, making it a perfect side dish for your next barbecue or picnic.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and grated
– 1 large apple, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated beets, apple, and cabbage.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the beet mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Roasted Beet and Chickpea Wrap
Savor the sweet and earthy flavors of roasted beets paired with creamy chickpeas in this vibrant wrap.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 whole wheat tortillas
– Crumbly feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss beets with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate pan, heat chickpeas over medium heat with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble wraps by spreading chickpeas, roasted beets, and crumbled feta (if using) onto each tortilla.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Easy Beetroot Risotto
Easy Beetroot Risotto
A vibrant and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, this beetroot risotto is a perfect accompaniment to any meal. With its creamy texture and sweet, earthy flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 250g Arborio rice
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add the diced beetroot and warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. If using wine, add it after 3 cups of broth have been absorbed.
6. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Beet and Walnut Dip
This vibrant dip combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the earthy flavor of walnuts, perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. With its unique color and delicious taste, it’s sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped beets, walnuts, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning as needed.
6. Serve with crackers, pita chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting the beets) + 5 minutes (blending)
Simple Beet and Orange Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of beets and oranges with a hint of tanginess from the citrus vinaigrette, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice into thin wedges.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, and vinegar.
5. Add the sliced beets and orange segments to the bowl; toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Beet and Sweet Potato Hash
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional hash, this Beet and Sweet Potato Hash combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of roasted beets. Perfect as a side dish or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 large beets, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes and beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Use a spatula to gently stir and break up the roasted vegetables into a chunky hash.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Quick Beet and Ginger Juice
Revitalize your day with this vibrant and refreshing juice that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1 apple, cored and chopped (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add the beets, ginger, and apple (if using) to a juicer or blender.
2. Juice or blend until smooth and pulpy.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or fibers.
4. Stir in the water and adjust the sweetness to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This juice is ready in just minutes.
Tips:
– Use fresh, organic ingredients for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of ginger to your desired level of spiciness.
– Experiment with other juices, such as lemon or carrot, to create unique flavor combinations.
Enjoy your Quick Beet and Ginger Juice!
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with beets! This article brings you 18 simple yet delicious recipes that showcase the sweet and earthy flavor of this underrated vegetable. From classic salads and soups to innovative dips and desserts, these easy beet recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to love in this collection of tasty and healthy ideas.
