Get ready to fall head over heels for the humble beet! These sweet and earthy roots are more than just a pretty color – they’re packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber. And when used in creative recipes, beets can add depth, complexity, and vibrancy to even the most mundane dishes.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious beet recipes that will elevate your cooking game and leave you feeling like a culinary rockstar. From savory salads and hearty stews to sweet treats and refreshing juices, there’s something for everyone in this Beet-tastic collection!
Stay tuned for our top picks and get ready to beet-ify your mealtime with these mouthwatering recipes!
Roasted Beet and Quinoa Salad
This hearty salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all tied together with a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is also great as a side dish or light supper.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 using water or broth.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Add roasted beets, cooked quinoa, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beetroot Hummus with Whole Wheat Pita
Discover the sweet and earthy flavors of roasted beetroot blended with creamy hummus, served with a crispy whole wheat pita.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Whole wheat pita bread (6-8 pieces)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the beetroot for 45 minutes or until tender.
2. Allow the roasted beetroot to cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
3. In a blender, combine the cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Add the chopped beetroot to the blender and blend until well combined.
5. With the blender running, slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream.
6. Serve the hummus with whole wheat pita bread.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Healthy Beet and Carrot Juice
This refreshing juice is packed with nutrients and antioxidants from beets and carrots, making it a perfect way to boost your energy and support overall health. With its sweet and earthy flavor, you’ll love starting your day with this healthy drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 4 medium carrots
– 1 apple, cored
– 1/2 lemon, peeled
– 1 inch of fresh ginger, peeled
Instructions:
1. Wash the ingredients thoroughly and chop them into manageable pieces.
2. Add the chopped vegetables, apple, lemon, and ginger to a juicer or blender.
3. Juice or blend according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or fibers.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Baked Beet Chips with Sea Salt
Transform ordinary beets into a deliciously crispy snack with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll enjoy a flavorful treat perfect for munching on the go.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and peel the beets, then slice them into thin chips.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the beet slices in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and sea salt.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beet and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and visually stunning recipe that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the tanginess of goat cheese. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large beets, peeled and roasted (about 1 cup)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix roasted beets and goat cheese until well combined.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the beet-goat cheese mixture.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Beetroot Soup with Coconut Milk
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet and earthy flavors, made even creamier with the addition of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped beetroot, vegetable broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beetroot is tender.
3. Blend the soup with an immersion blender or transfer it to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Beet and Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the peppery bite of arugula, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light yet satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 bunch arugula
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon honey (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 dice into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine arugula, roasted beets, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to combine, adding honey if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time) + preparation time
Spiralized Beet Noodles with Garlic and Olive Oil
Transform beets into a delicious and healthy noodle alternative, perfect for a quick and easy side dish or main course. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of beets paired with the pungency of garlic and richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spiralize the beets into noodle-like strands.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the spiralized beets to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic-infused oil.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet and Chickpea Burger Patties
These vibrant patties combine the natural sweetness of beets with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, making for a unique and delicious vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite burger toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. Roast the beets in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45 minutes, or until tender. Let cool, then peel and chop into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or a potato masher.
4. Add the chopped beets, breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
5. Form into 2-3 patties, depending on desired size.
6. Cook the patties in the skillet or grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Healthy Beet Smoothie with Banana and Almond Milk
This vibrant smoothie combines the natural sweetness of banana with the earthy flavor of beets, all powered by creamy almond milk. Enjoy a refreshing and nutritious treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium beet, peeled and chopped
– 1 ripe banana
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped beet, banana, and almond milk to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Beet and Walnut Pesto Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy richness of walnuts. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 medium beets, peeled and roasted (see note)
– 1/4 cup walnuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Toss cooked pasta with beet-walnut pesto sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Beet and Halloumi Skewers
A sweet and savory summer treat, these colorful skewers combine the natural sweetness of beets with the creamy tanginess of halloumi cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beets, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 block of halloumi cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a beet piece, followed by a halloumi round, onto each skewer.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beets are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme leaves, if desired.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beet and Lentil Stew with Turmeric
This hearty stew combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy flavor of lentils, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting package. The addition of turmeric adds a boost of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to this nutritious meal.
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 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion in a little water until softened.
2. Add the beets, lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and turmeric.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Raw Beet and Apple Slaw with Lemon Dressing
This vibrant slaw is a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and no cooking required, you can enjoy this refreshing side dish or use it as a topping for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large raw beets, peeled and grated
– 1 large apple, cored and grated
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the grated beets and apple.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the beet mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is ready in just a few minutes.
Beet and Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes and beets with the richness of scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large beet, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes and beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scramble eggs in a bowl and set aside.
4. Once the sweet potato and beet mixture has cooled slightly, chop it coarsely into small pieces.
5. In a large skillet, add the chopped sweet potato and beet mixture. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Pour in scrambled eggs and cook until they are just set.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beetroot and Avocado Sushi Rolls
This unique sushi roll combines the natural sweetness of beetroot with the creaminess of avocado, creating a refreshing twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. Perfect for adventurous eaters and veggie lovers alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked beets, peeled and diced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup short-grain rice (Japanese-style sushi rice)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions using 1/4 cup of water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together diced beetroot and mashed avocado.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a small amount of the beetroot-avocado mixture in the center of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including preparation)
Healthy Beet and Dark Chocolate Muffins
Elevate your snack game with these moist and flavorful muffins, packed with the natural sweetness of beets and the richness of dark chocolate. Perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated beetroot (about 2 medium beets)
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, applesauce, yogurt, and honey until smooth.
3. Add flour, oats, beetroot, chocolate chips, and baking powder. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
6. Allow to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Beet and Feta Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bell peppers with the earthy flavor of beets and tanginess of feta cheese, making for a unique and delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 large beets, peeled and cooked
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked beets, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the beet-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beet and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion. Earthy portobello mushrooms are filled with a vibrant beet and spinach mixture, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 2 medium beets, cooked and diced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean and stem the mushrooms.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked beets, chopped spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the beet mixture, dividing evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. If using goat cheese, crumble on top of each stuffed mushroom.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beet and Orange Salad with Mint
A refreshing and vibrant salad that combines the natural sweetness of beets and oranges with the cooling flavor of mint.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine 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.
3. Roast beets in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together orange segments, mint leaves, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
5. Once beets are cool enough to handle, add them to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes (including roasting time)
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the vibrant color and nutritional power of beets! This article shares 20 healthy beet recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From savory dishes like Roasted Beet and Quinoa Salad and Beet and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken, to sweet treats like Healthy Beet Smoothie with Banana and Almond Milk and Beet and Dark Chocolate Muffins, there’s something for everyone. Plus, get creative with beet-based snacks like Baked Beet Chips with Sea Salt and Spiralized Beet Noodles with Garlic and Olive Oil. Start cooking and discover the amazing benefits of beets!