
Beet Green
Beet greens are the leafy tops of beetroot plants, offering a slightly earthy and subtly bitter flavor profile. These vibrant, dark green leaves are similar in texture to Swiss chard or spinach, becoming tender when cooked. Fresh beet greens are a nutritious addition to any meal, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Look for firm, crisp leaves with no signs of wilting or yellowing to ensure the best quality. Learning how to cook beet greens properly unlocks a world of culinary possibilities, and choosing fresh beet greens over wilted will enhance the dish.
Common Uses
- Sauté beet greens with garlic and olive oil for a simple and healthy side dish. Sautéing beet greens quickly helps retain their vibrant color and nutrients, offering a delicious accompaniment to any main course.
- Add chopped beet greens to soups and stews to boost their nutritional value and add a slightly earthy flavor. Incorporating beet greens into soups enriches both the texture and the nutritional content of the dish.
- Use beet greens in salads, either raw (when young and tender) or lightly blanched. Blanched beet greens provide a tender, mild flavor that pairs well with various salad dressings and other fresh ingredients.
- Incorporate beet greens into omelets, frittatas, or quiches for a healthy and flavorful breakfast or brunch. Adding chopped beet greens to egg-based dishes boosts the vegetable content and imparts a subtle earthy note.
- Blend beet greens into smoothies for a hidden source of vitamins and minerals. The earthy flavor blends well with fruits like berries and bananas, making it a great way to boost nutrition.
- Steam beet greens as a simple side dish. Steaming preserves the nutrients and highlights the natural flavors of beet greens, making them a perfect complement to protein dishes.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
22.0kcal (1.1%)
Protein
2.3g (4.54%)
Carbs
4.3g (1.55%)
Sugars
1.1g (2.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
22.0kcal (1.1%)
Protein
2.3g (4.54%)
Carbs
4.3g (1.55%)
Sugars
1.1g (2.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.1g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immune function, vision, and blood clotting.
- Excellent source of antioxidants, like beta-carotene and lutein, fighting free radicals and reducing chronic disease risk.
- High in fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity, and aiding in weight management.
- Contains nitrates, which may help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
- Good source of minerals like potassium and magnesium, essential for nerve and muscle function.
- Low in calories and fat, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Beet greens are best used soon after harvesting. To store them, wrap the unwashed leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3-5 days. Avoid washing before storing, as moisture can promote spoilage. If the greens seem wilted, submerge them in cold water for a few minutes to revive them.
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