When it comes to cooking, few ingredients are as versatile or nutritious as beet greens. The often-overlooked cousin of the popular beets, beet greens bring a burst of flavor and color to any dish. And yet, many home cooks may not know where to start when it comes to preparing these delicious leaves.
That’s why we’ve put together our top 20 recipes for flavorful and nutritious beet greens dishes. From hearty soups and stews to vibrant salads and snacks, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with this underutilized ingredient.
Sautéed Garlic Beet Greens with Lemon Zest
A vibrant and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped beet greens to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until wilted and tender.
4. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Beet Greens and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Triangles
Elevate your appetizer game with these crispy, flavorful phyllo triangles filled with a savory mixture of beet greens, feta cheese, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick snack or party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2 cups beet greens, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika for added color
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine beet greens, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into triangles.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of each triangle.
6. Fold the triangle to form a triangle shape, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Beet Greens and Potato Soup
A delicious and nutritious soup that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthiness of potato, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy winter evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of beet greens, chopped (about 4 cups)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin for added depth of flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, vegetable broth, and chopped beet greens to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt, pepper, and cumin (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Stir-Fried Beet Greens with Ginger
This recipe brings out the best of beet greens by pairing them with spicy and aromatic flavors from ginger and chili flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, stems removed and chopped
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the garlic and chili flakes; cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the beet greens in batches, cooking until they wilt and reduce in size (about 5 minutes total).
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beet Greens and Chickpea Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry is a perfect way to use up beet greens and pairs well with warm naan bread or over rice. The sweetness of the beets complements the earthiness of the chickpeas, making for a delightful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and beet greens; stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Beet Greens Chips with Sea Salt
A delicious and healthy snack that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beet greens with the savory flavor of sea salt. Perfect for munching on while enjoying a movie or as a crunchy addition to your favorite salad.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, stems removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste (use flaky sea salt for best results)
– Optional: garlic powder or lemon zest for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse beet greens and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Toss greens with olive oil, salt, and any desired additional flavors (garlic powder or lemon zest). Massage the mixture into the leaves until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the greens in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beet Greens and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart is a perfect combination of earthy beet greens and tangy goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, washed and chopped
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, combine beet greens, goat cheese, olive oil, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Place the beet green mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush the top of the tart with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beet Greens Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that showcases the nutritional benefits of beet greens. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the richness of pine nuts, creating a deliciously healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups beet green leaves and stems
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine beet greens, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Add lemon juice and blend again to combine.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional pine nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Braised Beet Greens with Bacon and Onions
Savor the sweet and earthy flavor of beet greens cooked low and slow with crispy bacon and caramelized onions. This hearty side dish is perfect for a cozy evening or as a bed for your favorite proteins.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beet greens, cleaned and chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (for added depth)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the onions to the pan and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add the garlic, beet greens, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well.
5. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the greens are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon pieces if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beet Greens and Quinoa Salad with Balsamic Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the earthy sweetness of beet greens with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all tied together with a tangy balsamic dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups beet greens, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped beet greens, red onion, and cooked quinoa.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Crumble feta cheese on top (if using).
5. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
6. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet Greens and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of beet greens with the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes, creating a flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, cleaned and chopped
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped beet greens and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the beet greens. Toss to combine, then season with additional salt, pepper, or desired spices.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beet Greens and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew combines the earthy flavor of beet greens with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, all in a rich and aromatic broth. A perfect comforting meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups beet greens, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beet greens, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Stir in the cannellini beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pickled Beet Greens with Mustard Seeds
Savor the sweet and tangy flavor of pickled beet greens, elevated by the subtle spice of mustard seeds. This simple recipe showcases the versatility of beet greens and adds a delicious twist to traditional pickling.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beet greens (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
1. Rinse the beet greens and remove any stems or thick veins.
2. In a large bowl, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, and black peppercorns.
3. Add the beet greens to the brine and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
4. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (soaking time) + refrigeration time
Beet Greens and Mushroom Risotto
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of beet greens with the richness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cups beet greens, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped beet greens. Cook until the greens have wilted.
5. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beet Greens Smoothie with Apple and Ginger
This refreshing smoothie combines the earthy sweetness of beet greens with the crunch of apple and the zing of ginger, making for a healthy and revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups beet green leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup diced apple
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine beet greens, apple, and ginger.
2. Add almond milk and honey; blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Serve immediately, or pour into a glass jar and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Beet Greens and Lentil Soup with Turmeric
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of earthy flavors and vibrant colors, packed with nutrients from beet greens and lentils. The addition of turmeric adds a subtle warmth and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens, chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, cumin, and turmeric; stir for 1 minute.
4. Add the beet greens and vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beet Greens and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of beet greens with the creamy richness of ricotta. This unique take on stuffed shells is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups cooked beet greens, chopped
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beet greens, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the beet green-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beet Greens and Cornmeal Pancakes
Start your day with a nutritious twist on traditional pancakes, featuring the earthy flavor of beet greens and the comforting warmth of cornmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup beet greens, chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and chopped beet greens.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Grease the pan with butter or oil.
6. Using 1/4 cup measuring cups, scoop batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to set.
7. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Beet Greens and Walnut Pesto Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this unique and delicious combination of roasted beet greens, crunchy walnuts, and creamy pesto on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch beet greens (about 2 cups), stems removed
– 1/4 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (see below for recipe)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Recipe:
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss beet greens with a pinch of salt and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toast bread slices for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spread pesto on toasted bread, followed by roasted beet greens, and top with walnut halves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beet Greens and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
Elevate your flatbread game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, earthy beet greens, and crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cups beet greens, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, roll out the baguette on a floured surface to desired thickness.
4. Spread the cooked onions evenly over the flatbread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with beet greens, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on top.
7. Fold the crust over the filling to form a half-moon shape and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the deliciously nutritious world of beet greens with these 20 flavorful recipes! From sautéed garlic beet greens with lemon zest to beet greens and goat cheese tart, there’s something for everyone. Get creative with spicy stir-fried beet greens with ginger or make a comforting braised beet greens with bacon and onions. Enjoy the simplicity of roasted beet greens chips or indulge in creamy beet greens and potato soup. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, these recipes showcase the versatility and nutritional benefits of beet greens.
