As the seasons change, our culinary cravings often shift with them. In the spring, we crave fresh and light flavors. Summer brings a desire for refreshing salads and grilled delights. Autumn is all about warm comfort foods, while winter sparks a need for hearty stews and soups. And at the heart of many of these recipes? The humble beet! Its sweet, earthy flavor pairs with everything from tangy goat cheese to rich chocolate. In this article, we’ll explore 20 vibrant beet recipes that will satisfy your cravings whatever the season.
From classic salads to innovative desserts, these beet-based dishes are sure to inspire a world of culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, get ready to turn up the heat and let the beauty of beets shine!
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a bed of crisp arugula. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (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.
3. Let the 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. Top with roasted beet slices and drizzle with balsamic vinegar (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Beetroot Hummus with Pita Chips
Experience the sweet and earthy flavor of beetroot in a creamy hummus, perfect for dipping pita chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
– Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the beetroot in a foil-lined baking sheet for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Let the beetroot cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the cooled beetroot, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Blend until smooth, adding the olive oil in a slow stream.
6. Add the water and blend until desired consistency is reached.
7. Serve the hummus with pita chips for dipping.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including roasting time)
Golden Beet and Carrot Soup
This vibrant and comforting soup combines the sweetness of golden beets and carrots with a hint of earthy flavor, perfect for a chilly evening. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be sipping on this deliciousness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large golden beets
– 4 medium-sized carrots
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets and carrots in foil, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little bit of olive oil until translucent.
4. Add the roasted beets and carrots, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Blend the mixture until smooth, then adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pickled Beets with Red Onion
This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the pungency of red onion, creating a deliciously tangy condiment perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh beets
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup (15 g) pickling spices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Peel the cooled beets and slice into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced beets, red onion, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and pickling spices (if using).
4. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beet and Arugula Pizza with Balsamic Glaze
This vibrant pizza combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the peppery zing of arugula, all on a crispy crust topped with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 large beets, peeled and roasted (see notes)
– 4 oz arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Spread the roasted beets over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with arugula leaves and crumbled goat cheese.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze (see notes) over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beetroot Chocolate Cake
This rich and mocha-flavored cake is a unique twist on traditional chocolate cake, with the added sweetness of beetroot. The beetroot adds a subtle earthy flavor that complements the deep flavors of cocoa and chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup cooked and peeled beetroot, pureed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Add pureed beetroot, flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Fold chocolate into the batter until well combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beet and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the nutty flavor of quinoa. Perfect as a main dish or side, these colorful peppers are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 medium beets, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, diced beets, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beet and Orange Smoothie
Start your day with a vibrant and refreshing twist on traditional smoothies! This Beet and Orange Smoothie combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the tanginess of oranges, making for a deliciously healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 1 navel orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
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 add them to a blender with the orange segments, Greek yogurt, and honey.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency, then blend until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (roasting beets)
Beet and Walnut Pesto Pasta
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional pesto pasta, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of beets with the richness of walnuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Allow beets to cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
3. In a food processor, combine cooked beets, parsley, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Process until smooth.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Toss with pesto sauce and season with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using).
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Beetroot Risotto with Parmesan
Discover the sweet and earthy flavors of beetroot combined with the creaminess of risotto, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium beetroot, peeled and diced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the beetroot in boiling water until tender, then let cool.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it to the pan and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm the broth and add 1/2 cup at a time to the pan, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
6. Once the rice is cooked, stir in the cooled beetroot and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beet and Feta Tart
This sweet and savory tart is a perfect combination of earthy beets, tangy feta, and flaky pastry. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 bowl, combine sliced beets, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Arrange beet mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle feta cheese over the beets.
6. Fold other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden brown color.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beet and Apple Slaw
This sweet and tangy slaw combines the natural sweetness of beets and apples with a hint of vinegar, making it a perfect side dish for your next barbecue or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and grated
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated beets and diced apple.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the beet and apple mixture, and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Beetroot Latkes with Sour Cream
Discover the sweet and savory combination of beetroot latkes paired with a dollop of tangy sour cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, grated
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated beetroot, onion, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the beetroot mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of latkes)
Beet and Chickpea Burger
This vibrant burger combines the natural sweetness of beets with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, creating a unique and delicious patty. Perfect for veggie lovers and health-conscious foodies!
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1/4 cup oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Roast the beets in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
3. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, oats, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until coarsely chopped.
4. Add the roasted beets to the processor and pulse until well combined.
5. Form the mixture into 2-3 patties, depending on desired size.
6. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Beet and Ginger Juice
This refreshing and vibrant juice is a great way to start your day or boost your energy levels with its natural detoxifying properties. The sweetness of the beets pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of the ginger, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both invigorating and nourishing.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
– 1 apple (any variety), cored
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Wash all the ingredients thoroughly.
2. Peel the beets and chop them into small pieces.
3. Add the chopped beets, ginger, apple, and water to a juicer or blender.
4. Juice or blend until smooth.
5. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply juice and enjoy.
Beetroot and Lentil Curry
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and nutritious ingredients, making it a great option for a quick and healthy meal. With the natural sweetness of beetroot and the creamy texture of lentils, this curry is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or yellow beetroot, peeled and diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add beetroot and lentils. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Beet and Avocado Sushi Rolls
A unique fusion of flavors and textures, these beet and avocado sushi rolls offer a refreshing twist on traditional sushi.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked beets, peeled and diced
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice (such as sushi rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions using the 1:1 ratio of rice to water. Allow it to cool.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cooked beets and rice vinegar. Set aside.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place two slices of avocado in the middle of the rice.
5. Add the beet mixture on top of the avocado.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for sushi rice)
Beet and Blue Cheese Flatbread
This sweet and savory flatbread combines roasted beets with creamy blue cheese, perfect as a snack or appetizer for your next gathering. The earthy flavor of the beets pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 large beet, roasted and diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough into a thin circle. Top with roasted beets and crumbled blue cheese.
5. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Beetroot Ice Cream with Pistachios
This unique ice cream recipe combines the natural sweetness of beetroot with the crunch of pistachios, creating a refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked and peeled beetroot
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the cooked beetroot until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and beetroot puree.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the chopped pistachios.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (including chilling time)
Beet and Sweet Potato Hash
Beet and Sweet Potato Hash Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy taste of beets, all in a crispy hash form.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large beet, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes, beets, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall head over heels for the sweet, earthy flavor of beets! In this article, we’re sharing 20 vibrant beet recipes that’ll delight your taste buds and inspire your cooking. From savory dishes like Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad and Beetroot Risotto with Parmesan, to sweet treats like Beetroot Chocolate Cake and Beetroot Ice Cream with Pistachios, these recipes showcase the versatility of beets in every season. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cook, you’ll find inspiration for your next meal or snack.
