Beet

• Roasting beets brings out their natural sweetness and creates a tender, caramelized texture. Try roasting whole beets with olive oil, herbs, and a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar for a simple yet delicious side dish. Roasted beets can also be pureed into a creamy soup or added to salads for a burst of flavor and color.
• Pickling beets preserves them for longer storage and adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. Pickled beets are a classic accompaniment to salads, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards. Experiment with different brines using vinegar, sugar, and spices to create your own unique pickled beet recipe.
• Juicing beets is a popular way to enjoy their nutritional benefits. Beet juice is rich in nitrates, which can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Combine beet juice with other fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, and ginger for a refreshing and healthy beverage.
• Adding shredded or grated beets to salads provides a vibrant color and earthy flavor. Raw beets offer a crunchy texture, while cooked beets are more tender. Combine beets with other salad ingredients like goat cheese, walnuts, and citrus fruits for a flavorful and visually appealing salad.
• Beets can also be incorporated into desserts, such as cakes, brownies, and ice cream. Their natural sweetness and earthy flavor pair well with chocolate and other rich ingredients. Beets also add moisture and a unique texture to baked goods. Search for chocolate beet cake recipes for a decadent treat.
• Prepare creamy beet hummus. Cooked beets can be used in dips. Their color turns the hummus a vibrant pink and provides a delicious, slightly sweet, earth taste.

• Rich in nitrates, beets may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Beets are a good source of fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regularity.
• The antioxidants in beets, such as betalains, can help protect cells from damage.
• Beets provide essential nutrients like folate, potassium, and vitamin C, supporting overall well-being.
• Beets may enhance athletic performance by improving oxygen use and reducing fatigue.
• Some studies suggest beets may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Store beets by first trimming the leafy greens, leaving about an inch of stem attached to prevent bleeding. Store the greens separately in a plastic bag in the refrigerator; they will last for a few days. Unwashed beets can be stored in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator for 2-4 weeks. Cooked beets should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within 3-5 days. You can also freeze cooked beets; blanch them first, then freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container.