Varying opinions abound when it comes to beet recipes – some people love them, while others can’t stand the earthy flavor. However, the vibrant color of beets is undeniable, and with the right combination of sweet and savory ingredients, even the most skeptical individuals may find themselves won over. When prepared correctly, beets possess a natural sweetness that pairs well with an array of flavors.
On this extensive list of 26 beet recipes, you’ll discover everything from straightforward roasted beets to innovative combinations like strawberry and beet popsicles. The key is finding the perfect balance between earthy notes and other ingredients, allowing even the most stubborn beet-haters to find something they enjoy.
Refrigerator Pickled Beets
Needless to say, the swift preparation time makes this recipe an attractive option, even if its shelf life is relatively short. Notwithstanding its limited longevity, the convenience of being able to quickly prepare a batch at any given moment is undeniable. When it comes down to it, letting your beets rest for a couple of days allows their flavors to meld together beautifully.
Furthermore, don’t be hesitant to try new things – incorporating different varieties of beets will undoubtedly add an extra layer of vibrancy to your salads.
Easy Roasted Beets
Frequently, roasting beets is considered the most effective way to intensify their flavor. By doing so, it enables the natural taste to become more complex and rich, without the risk of losing any essential nutrients in a boiling liquid. One of the added benefits is that after about an hour of roasting in the oven, the skins can be easily removed, eliminating the need for tedious peeling and saving your nails from unwanted stains.
Beet Smoothie
Elevate your smoothie game with this seemingly unlikely addition: beets! At first glance, it might not seem like a good fit among the sweetness of berries, the richness of honey, and the creaminess of yogurt. But trust us, it works wonders. The subtle earthy flavor of beets is barely noticeable amidst the other ingredients, but that’s exactly what makes them so great.
Not only do beets add a pop of color to your smoothie, but they’re also packed with nutrients like potassium and vitamin C, which can help lower blood pressure and boost your immune system. Plus, beets are high in antioxidants and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any health-conscious smoothie recipe. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds – and body – will thank you.
5-Minute Beet Vinaigrette
Delving into the world of beets as a raw ingredient is quite exciting, and when preparing them for blending, it’s essential to break down the beets into small enough pieces so they don’t overburden your blender. To avoid any hassle, make sure to peel the skin off the beets before chopping or blending them. Considering the staining properties of beets, wearing gloves during this process is a good idea.
One of the benefits of using beets in smoothies is that you can adjust the level of sweetness to your liking by adding more or less honey. Some people also like to add a pinch of black sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture, which not only adds depth but also creates an interesting visual effect with its dark flecks against the vibrant pink color of the beets.
Beet Pickled Eggs
Elevate your Easter appetizer game with a twist on traditional pickled eggs! Not only do they have an amazing tangy flavor, but the addition of pickled beets takes this recipe to the next level. In fact, you’ll end up with not one, but two delicious accompaniments: vibrant pink pickled eggs and sweet pickled beets that are perfect for topping a salad or adding a pop of color to your Easter table.
Golden Beet Salad
Honestly, if you’re still not convinced that beets will taste like anything other than dirt, I highly recommend trying golden beets first. Their unique flavor profile is much sweeter and far less earthy than the classic red beet variety, making them an excellent choice for those who are hesitant to try beets. Additionally, golden beets can be chopped and handled without worrying about any stubborn stains.
On a similar note, if you’ve never tried white balsamic vinegar before, you’re in for a delightful surprise. The flavor is remarkably similar to regular balsamic, but toned down to a much more subtle taste, making it perfect for those with picky palates.
Classic Borscht Recipe
Benefiting from its numerous health benefits, beet soup is a nutritious and visually appealing option. Its rich combination of chicken broth, potatoes, carrots, beans, and seasonings not only makes it extremely filling but also provides an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals. For those looking for a vegetarian version, substituting the stock with a plant-based alternative is a simple solution.
I personally enjoy garnishing my beet soup with a dollop of sour cream and serving it alongside a warm crusty loaf of bread to mop up every last drop.
Beet Baba Ganoush Dip Recipe
Delighting in its simplicity, this bright little dip is typically made using roasted eggplant and tahini paste, creating a flavor profile that’s remarkably similar to hummus. Its versatility allows it to be served on a mezze platter alongside other dips and an assortment of fresh veggies, making it a great option for those looking for a lighter snack or appetizer.
Furthermore, incorporating beets into the mix will not only add natural sweetness but also bring a depth of flavor that elevates the overall taste experience.
Roasted Beet Hummus
Keep in mind that people have varying tastes when it comes to unique flavors like roasted eggplant dip. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, there are plenty of other delicious options available. One such alternative is this hummus recipe, which has become a staple for many due to its unbeatable taste and texture. Its popularity can be attributed to the fact that it provides a refreshing change from the usual bland dips found at social gatherings, making it an instant hit on any table.
Roasted Beet and Walnut Dip
Undoubtedly one of the most versatile nuts in baking, walnuts boast an unexpectedly rich and buttery texture that elevates any recipe to new heights. I was initially hesitant to experiment with them beyond traditional baked goods, but after discovering their potential as a dip ingredient, I’ve become hooked! Following the exact ingredient list is crucial, as it strikes the perfect balance of flavors – any deviations would only dilute its exceptional taste.
Once ready, consider garnishing with a delicate drizzle of pomegranate balsamic glaze and sprinkling a pinch of crunchy seeds for added depth and texture.
Warm Goat Cheese, Beet, and Arugula Sandwiches
Starting with a blank slate, I’m always excited to discover new and innovative ideas for meatless Mondays. Not only do plant-based dishes offer a refreshing change of pace, but they can also be surprisingly bold and satisfying. This sandwich embodies the perfect balance of flavors and textures, exceeding my expectations in every way. The combination of earthy beets and tangy goat’s cheese may seem like an unlikely pair, but somehow, they complement each other beautifully.
Personally, I love toasting the bread so that the cheese melts slightly and provides a crispy contrast to the softness of the filling. Yet, no matter how you assemble it, the variety of textures from the filling ensures that this sandwich will be just as delicious on a slice of fresh, soft bread.
Beet Lemonade Recipe
Just like many natural food coloring agents, beets have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility and health benefits. Often used in dry powder form, they add a vibrant red hue to various baked goods and desserts. I’ve personally had great success using beet powder in vegan cakes and frostings, where its subtle flavor enhances the overall taste experience without overpowering it.
This recipe takes it to the next level by incorporating raw beets, resulting in an even more striking color. However, don’t worry that the earthy sweetness of the beets will overshadow the other ingredients – the presence of citrus elements like lemons and limes, combined with a generous amount of sugar, ensures that the flavor profile remains balanced and enjoyable.
Oven Baked Beet Fries with Spicy Aioli
When it comes to indulging in finger foods, I have a confession to make: fries hold a special place in my heart – they’re just too hard to resist! Whether I’m snacking on them as a quick pick-me-up or enjoying them as part of a meal, French fries always seem to hit the spot. However, with great love comes great responsibility, and that’s why I’m constantly on the lookout for healthier alternatives to curb my cravings.
That’s where these innovative beet fries come in – made by combining red and golden beets for added visual appeal, they’re not only a tasty option but also a nutritious one.
Oven Baked Beet Chips Recipe
Eager foodies might already know about the delight of root vegetable chips – those crunchy, crispy, salty, colorful, and basically healthy snacks that are perfect for munching on. But what if you could make them at home with minimal effort? This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, and all you need is a mandolin to achieve those precise slices. Don’t worry if you don’t have one – you can still get great results without it!
Again, using a mix of red and golden beets will add an extra touch of visual appeal to your bowl. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, such as adding a pinch of paprika for some heat or sticking to plain sea salt for a more subtle flavor.
Harvard Beets
Garnished with a sweet and sour flavor profile, this New England side dish boasts a rich depth of color and taste. The key to achieving such an appealing combination lies in cooking the beets in a mixture of vinegar and sugar, which yields a perfect balance between the two flavors. This makes them an ideal accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from hearty pot roast to juicy chicken. Additionally, the sauce is silky smooth and has a lovely thickness, courtesy of the butter and cornstarch.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it can be enjoyed both hot and cold, eliminating any concerns about leftovers.
Roasted Spiralized Beets with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
Personally, I have to confess that my enthusiasm for spiralized vegetables reached new heights not too long ago. My curiosity got the better of me, and I felt compelled to try out every vegetable under the sun to see how it would transform into a noodle form. However, there was one veggie that initially seemed like an unlikely candidate: beets. I had assumed they would crumble and break apart, rendering them useless as a substitute for spaghetti.
Fortunately, my initial reservations were misplaced. Not only did beets retain their shape when spiralized and roasted, but they also proved to be the perfect spaghetti alternative.
Beet Ravioli with Goat Cheese, Ricotta, and Mint Filling
Gathering in the kitchen on a weekend afternoon is one of my favorite things to do, and making my own pasta from scratch is always at the top of my list. While it does require a bit more time and patience than using store-bought pasta, I find that it’s well worth the extra effort. This homemade pasta gets its vibrant color not just from beet powder or juice, but from actual roasted beets that add a depth of flavor to each bite.
The combination of tender beets and rich filling is truly something special.
Beet Wellington with Balsamic Reduction
Not only did I create this dish as a thoughtful gesture for my vegetarian friend, but it was clear that she greatly appreciated the effort I put into making something special just for her. While not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for mushrooms, there’s an easy solution to adapt the recipe: simply increase the amount of spinach mix and use it to wrap the beets instead. For those who are more particular about their ingredients, this approach still yields a delicious result.
To add an extra layer of flavor without compromising on the vegetarian aspect, I opted to brush the pastry with pesto. Although my friend isn’t strictly vegetarian, she was delighted by this touch. If you’d prefer to keep it fully plant-based, consider using a high-quality vegan pesto for added depth and richness.
Sweet Beet Bread
Very often, baked goods are overly sweetened, but this recipe takes a different approach. The result is a moist, tender crumb that’s light and full of great texture. One of my favorite additions to this bread is grated beets – they’ll soften as it cooks, but still provide a touch of sweetness and plenty of moisture. If you prefer a sweeter treat, try incorporating some dark chocolate chips into the batter or topping it with a simple buttercream.
Strawberry-Beet Popsicle
Parents often struggle to find ways to encourage their kids to eat more healthy foods. One effective approach is to present options that are not only appealing but also nutritious. While it’s no secret that kids are drawn to bright colors and fun shapes, why not make the most of this preference by creating popsicles that are actually good for them?
By using gluten-free ingredients, vegan alternatives, and natural sweeteners, you can create a treat that your kids will love without compromising on nutrition.
Kid-Friendly Pink Beet Pancakes
Riding on the wave of popularity, bright pink pancakes are a treat that little kids can’t resist. The moment they catch sight of the colorful dish, they’ll dive right in without questioning the source of the vibrant hue. Their eyes will widen as they take their first bite, and they’ll likely ask for more. One thing that really stood out to me was how incredibly light and fluffy these pancakes turned out – a far cry from the dense, earthy texture I expected.
What’s more, making a big batch is a great idea, as you can freeze them for a quick and easy mid-week breakfast solution.
Chocolate Beet Cookies
Taking centre stage in the world of chocolate cookies is a recipe that stands out from the rest: double chocolate beet cookies. The unique combination of deep brown sugar, rich dark chocolate, and beet puree might lead you to wonder if there’s something special about these treats. But don’t be fooled – you won’t taste the beets! This clever pairing creates a depth of flavour that’s hard to resist. Moreover, this recipe boasts another impressive feature: it’s entirely gluten-free.
Instead of relying on traditional flour, ground oats provide the necessary structure and texture. For added texture and chewiness, I like to include some whole oats in the mixture.
Fudgy Beet Gluten-Free Brownies
Deeply ingrained in many gluten-free, vegan brownie recipes is an inherent lack of that quintessential chocolatey flavor and fudgy texture we all know and love. Despite my initial skepticism, I was pleasantly surprised to discover these brownies bursting with rich, intense chocolate flavor (full disclosure: I may have slightly overindulged in the chocolate chips).
The natural sweetness comes from a combination of maple syrup and applesauce, offering a delightful twist on traditional sweeteners; alternatively, mashed bananas can also be used for an added layer of complexity.
Chocolate Chunk Beet Ice Cream
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping vegan ice cream recipe! A vibrant color is the first hint that this treat is going to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of cooked beets, coconut milk, agave, ginger, and dark chocolate creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Just be sure to use vegan-friendly chocolate for an authentic experience. This recipe can be easily made in an ice cream machine or by simply freezing the mixture.
For a lighter texture, try whipping up some coconut cream and gently folding it into the mix before freezing. The result is a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days or as a special treat any time of the year.
Laura Hauser is a food writer and editor passionate about authentic, approachable home cooking.
