As the seasons change, our taste buds crave new and exciting flavors. One ingredient that stands out as a versatile and vibrant addition to any meal is the humble beet. With its deep red color and sweet earthy flavor, beets can add a pop of color and excitement to even the most mundane dishes. From soups and salads to baked goods and main courses, beets are a culinary chameleon that can adapt to any season or occasion.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 vibrant beet recipes for every season, from refreshing summer salads to hearty winter stews. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory meal, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with this incredible ingredient.
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of fresh greens. Perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
– 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. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, goat cheese, and walnuts.
5. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with roasted beet wedges and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting beets) + 10 minutes (assembly)
Beetroot Hummus with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful beetroot hummus, perfectly paired with crispy pita chips. This sweet and savory combination is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large beetroot, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 bag pita chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the beetroot in a foil packet for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then add them to a blender with the roasted beetroot, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil and continue blending until well combined.
5. Serve the hummus with pita chips for dipping.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Borscht with Fresh Dill and Sour Cream
Experience the classic Russian beet soup with a twist – the freshness of dill and tanginess of sour cream.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs beets, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beets, onion, garlic, beef broth, vegetable broth, dill, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beets are tender.
3. Purée the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches.
4. Stir in sour cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Beet and Carrot Juice with Ginger
Refresh your body and mind with this vibrant juice packed with nutrients from beets, carrots, and a hint of spicy ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets
– 4 medium carrots
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Wash the beets and carrots thoroughly, then peel them.
2. Cut the beets into quarters and the carrots into chunks.
3. Peel the ginger using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife.
4. Add all ingredients to a juicer or blender.
5. Juice or blend until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down sides of machine.
6. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (juicing/blending time)
Golden Beet Risotto with Parmesan
This vibrant risotto celebrates the natural sweetness of golden beets, paired with the salty richness of Parmesan cheese. A perfect side dish for any occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium golden beets
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Once beets are cool enough to handle, peel and slice into thin wedges.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve risotto hot, topped with roasted beet slices and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Pickled Beets with Red Onion and Thyme
These pickled beets are a perfect side dish for any occasion, with the natural sweetness of the beets balanced by the tanginess of the vinegar and the pungency of the thyme. The addition of red onion adds a pop of color and flavor to this simple yet elegant recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 large beets
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
4. In a large bowl, combine sliced beets, red onion, vinegar, water, sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (roasting time), plus 24 hours refrigeration
Beet and Arugula Pizza with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of sweet beets, peppery arugula, and tangy balsamic glaze. This flavorful and visually appealing pizza is perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza crust and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Arrange the beet slices in a single layer, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the beets.
5. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with arugula leaves.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
8. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the pizza and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Beetroot Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This moist and decadent cake combines the natural sweetness of beetroot with the richness of dark chocolate, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup beetroot puree
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cream cheese frosting ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, sugar, beetroot puree, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Combine frosting ingredients and beat until smooth. Top the cooled cake with the frosting and serve.
Beet and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
These vibrant peppers are packed with a flavorful blend of roasted beets, quinoa, and aromatic spices. A perfect vegan-friendly main course or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 medium beets, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the beets in a foil packet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until tender, about 45 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, roasted beets, chopped onion, garlic, and cumin.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Beet and Orange Salad with Walnuts
A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines the natural sweetness of beets and oranges with the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 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. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine roasted beets, orange segments, mint leaves, and walnuts.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and white wine vinegar.
5. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting beets)
Creamy Beet and Potato Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening, combining the earthy sweetness of beets and potatoes with a rich and creamy texture. With its vibrant color and delicious flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Boil potatoes until they’re slightly tender, then drain and set aside.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted beets, potatoes, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half to the pot.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Beet and Lentil Burgers with Avocado
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of beets with the earthy flavor of lentils, resulting in a unique and delicious burger patty. Top it with creamy avocado for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 medium beets, cooked and peeled
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices whole grain bread (for buns)
– Avocado, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mash the cooked beets with a fork until mostly smooth.
2. Add the lentils, oats, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the beets. Mix well.
3. Shape into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook in a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Assemble burgers on whole grain bread with sliced avocado.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Beet Chips with Sea Salt and Rosemary
Transform ordinary beets into a delicious snack by transforming them into crispy chips, seasoned with the perfect blend of sea salt and rosemary. This simple recipe yields a flavorful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Paper towels for draining
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the beets and slice into thin rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, sea salt, and chopped rosemary.
4. Add beet slices to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
5. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Arrange beet chips in a single layer, leaving some space between each chip.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until beets are crispy, flipping halfway through.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on paper towels to drain excess moisture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beet and Feta Tart with Puff Pastry
This sweet and savory tart combines the earthy flavor of beets, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the flaky texture of puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons 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 bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add sliced beets and toss to coat.
4. Arrange beets in a pattern on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle feta cheese over the beets.
6. Fold other half of pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beet and Apple Smoothie with Cinnamon
This sweet and earthy smoothie combines the natural sweetness of apples and beets with a hint of warm cinnamon, perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 large apple, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine beets, apple, Greek yogurt, honey, and cinnamon.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding almond milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level if desired.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Beet and Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant curry combines the natural sweetness of beets with the creamy richness of coconut milk, making it a perfect vegetarian main dish or side. The addition of chickpeas provides a satisfying texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beets, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beets and chickpeas; stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 20-25 minutes or until the beets are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Beet and Radish Slaw with Lemon Dressing
This vibrant slaw combines the sweetness of beets with the crunch of radishes, all tied together with a refreshing lemon dressing. Perfect as a side dish or topping for your favorite sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 cup thinly sliced radishes
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 grate into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine grated beets, sliced radishes, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and honey.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Beet and Spinach Pasta with Garlic Butter
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of beets, the earthiness of spinach, and the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 medium beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and butter over medium heat until fragrant.
4. Add sliced beets to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Combine cooked pasta, beet-spinach mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beet and Blue Cheese Flatbread
A flavorful twist on traditional flatbread, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the pungent tanginess of 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, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour; mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour; knead for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Arrange beet slices on one half of the dough; sprinkle with blue cheese.
7. Fold other half of dough over beets and cheese, pressing edges to seal.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet and Ginger Glazed Salmon
This sweet and savory recipe combines the earthy flavor of beets with the spicy warmth of ginger, perfectly balancing the richness of salmon. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large beets, peeled and cooked
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree cooked beets, brown sugar, honey, ginger, and soy sauce until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the beet glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the glazed salmon and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the humble beet! This article showcases 20 stunning recipes that highlight the versatility and flavor of beets, from sweet treats like Beetroot Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting to savory dishes like Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad. Enjoy refreshing summer drinks like Beet and Orange Salad with Walnuts or cozy up with warm soups like Creamy Beet and Potato Soup. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, earthy, or tangy flavors, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant collection of beet recipes.
