When it comes to adding a pop of color and a boost of nutrition to your meals, few ingredients can rival the humble beet. With their sweet earthy flavor and vibrant magenta hue, beets are a culinary superstar waiting to happen. From salads and soups to smoothies and snacks, there’s no shortage of ways to get creative with this nutritious root veggie. In this article, we’ll explore 20 vibrant and healthy beet recipes that will elevate your cooking game and make you fall head over heels for the mighty beet.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty salad, a refreshing juice, or a satisfying snack, these recipes have got you covered. And with their impressive nutritional profile – beets are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants – you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body. So without further ado, let’s dive into our top 20 picks for the most delicious and nutritious beet recipes out there…
Roasted Beet and Quinoa Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all tied together with a tangy and creamy lemon tahini dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (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. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted beets, cooked quinoa, and lemon tahini dressing. Toss to combine.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Beet and Carrot Detox Juice
Get ready to reboot your digestive system with this vibrant and refreshing beet and carrot juice! This recipe is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and natural detoxifiers that will leave you feeling light, energized, and prepared for the day ahead.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 4 medium carrots
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash and chop the beets and carrots into small pieces.
2. Add the chopped vegetables to a juicer or blender with the peeled ginger.
3. Juice or blend the mixture until smooth and vibrant.
4. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or fibers.
5. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy juice that can be prepared in under 10 minutes.
Healthy Beetroot Hummus with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your snacking game with this vibrant and nutritious twist on classic hummus! Roasted beetroot adds a sweet and earthy flavor to this creamy dip, while fresh herbs bring a bright and refreshing touch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs of your choice (e.g. parsley, cilantro, or dill), chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast beetroot for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain and rinse chickpeas. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted beetroot, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped fresh herbs and salt to taste.
4. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add water and blend until desired consistency is reached.
5. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Baked Beet Chips with Sea Salt
Transform fresh beets into a deliciously sweet and crispy snack with this easy recipe. Perfect for a healthy munchie fix, these baked beet chips are seasoned with flaky sea salt for added flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sea salt
– Optional: additional seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and peel the beets, then slice into thin rounds.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange beet slices in a single layer, leaving space for even cooking.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the beets, followed by a sprinkle of sea salt.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until beets are tender and crispy.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beet and Chickpea Burger with Avocado
A vibrant twist on the classic burger, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the creamy richness of chickpeas and avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium beet, peeled and cooked
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mash the cooked beet with a fork until coarsely chopped.
3. Add the chickpeas and mash together with the beet until well combined.
4. Shape into 4 patties.
5. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Assemble the burgers by spreading mashed avocado on each patty, then adding a bun and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Golden Beet and Kale Superfood Salad
This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of golden beets with the nutritional powerhouse of kale, topped with a tangy citrus vinaigrette. A perfect blend of flavors and textures to start your day off right!
Ingredients:
– 2 large golden beets
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the golden beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Remove the beets from the foil and let cool.
4. In a large bowl, massage the kale with your hands until it’s soft and pliable.
5. Slice the cooled beets into thin wedges.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
7. Combine the beets, kale, feta cheese (if using), and nuts in the bowl. Drizzle with the citrus vinaigrette and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beetroot Smoothie Bowl with Almond Butter
Get ready to nourish your body and brighten up your day with this vibrant beetroot smoothie bowl! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the creamy richness of almond butter, topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beetroot
– 1/2 cup frozen berries (such as blueberries or raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon almond butter
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Pinch of salt
– Granola and fresh fruit for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the beetroot and place them in a blender with frozen berries, almond butter, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding almond milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl and top with sliced banana, granola, and fresh fruit (if using).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Grilled Beet and Goat Cheese Wrap
Elevate your wrap game with this sweet and savory combination of grilled beets, creamy goat cheese, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Wrap beets in foil and grill for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into thin strips.
4. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and parsley.
5. Spread goat cheese on tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Arrange beet slices on top of cheese, followed by a drizzle of the herb mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Roll up wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spiralized Beet and Apple Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of beets and apples with a tangy citrus dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a healthy snack. With its pop of color and satisfying crunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let the beets cool, then spiralize into long noodles.
3. Peel and slice the apple into thin wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
5. In a large bowl, combine the spiralized beets, apple slices, and dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time), plus assembly time
Beet and Lentil Soup with Turmeric
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet beets, earthy lentils, and spicy turmeric, making it a cozy and nourishing meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped beets and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Raw Beet and Walnut Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the earthy sweetness of raw beets, the richness of walnuts, and the creaminess of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 large raw beets, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup walnut pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine grated beets, walnut pieces, pesto, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
3. Toss the cooked pasta with the beet-walnut pesto mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional hash, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 large beets, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the beets to the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes and cooked beets in the skillet. Stir in garlic (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beetroot Gazpacho with Cucumber and Dill
Beat the heat with this vibrant and flavorful soup, perfect for a summer’s day. This Beetroot Gazpacho with Cucumber and Dill is a twist on the classic Spanish cold soup, combining the sweetness of beets with the freshness of cucumber and dill.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine beetroot, cucumber, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, and vinegar.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is served chilled.
Stuffed Beets with Quinoa and Feta
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy flavor of quinoa and the tanginess of feta, making for a unique and delicious side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large beets
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the beets in a foil-lined baking sheet until tender, about 45-50 minutes.
3. Let the beets cool, then peel and slice them into wedges.
4. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Stuff each beet wedge with the quinoa-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four beets.
6. Drizzle the stuffed beets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beet and Arugula Pizza with Whole Wheat Crust
This vibrant pizza combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the peppery flavor of arugula, all on a nutty whole wheat crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup roasted beet puree (see note)
– 1/4 cup arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, warm water, olive oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
4. Top the dough with roasted beet puree, arugula leaves, mozzarella cheese, and feta cheese.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Note: To roast beets, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap 2-3 beets in foil and roast for about 45 minutes or until tender. Let cool, then peel and puree.
Beet and Berry Chia Pudding
This vibrant pudding combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tartness of berries, all wrapped up in a nutritious package. Perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chia seeds
– 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup cooked and cooled beetroot puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, beetroot puree, and honey. Stir well to combine.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow it to thicken.
3. Just before serving, stir in the mixed berries and salt.
4. Spoon the pudding into individual servings and enjoy.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (prep only)
Pickled Beets with Ginger and Star Anise
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these sweet and sour pickled beets, infused with the warmth of ginger and star anise.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh or pickled beets
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1 whole star anise pod
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, ginger, and star anise.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the beets into clean glass jars or containers, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator.
6. Allow the pickles to chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering) + chilling time
Beet and Black Bean Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy goodness of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy corn tortilla. The tangy kick from the lime crema takes it to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium beet, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss beet with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion, jalapeño, and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add black beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve with tacos.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Beetroot and Coconut Milk Curry
This vibrant curry combines the natural sweetness of beetroot with the creamy richness of coconut milk, creating a unique and flavorful Indian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the diced beetroot, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the beetroot is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Beet and Dark Chocolate Energy Bites
A sweet and savory treat that combines the earthy flavor of beets with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried cooked beets
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats and beets.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in chopped dark chocolate chips.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Use your hands or a cookie scoop to form into bite-sized balls.
7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None, these bites are no-bake!
Summary
Discover the vibrant and nutritious world of beets with these 20 healthy recipes! From savory to sweet, explore creative ways to enjoy this superfood. Try roasting beets with quinoa and lemon tahini dressing, or blend them into a detoxifying juice. Enjoy hummus made with fresh herbs, crispy baked chips with sea salt, or indulge in beet-based burgers and pizzas. Plus, find healthy twists on classic dishes like soup, salad, and smoothie bowls. Get ready to fall in love with beets all over again!
