red beet

Red Beet

Red beets, also known simply as beets, are vibrant root vegetables prized for their earthy-sweet flavor and deep crimson color. Their smooth skin gives way to a firm, slightly crunchy texture when raw, becoming tender and almost buttery when cooked. Whether roasted, boiled, or pickled, fresh red beets offer a unique earthy sweetness that enhances both savory and sweet dishes, making them a healthy and flavorful addition to any culinary repertoire. Looking for the best ways to prepare fresh beets? Explore delicious beet recipes online!

Common Uses

  • Roasted red beets with balsamic glaze are a delightful side dish. Roasting intensifies their natural sweetness and creates a caramelized exterior. Toss with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and herbs for a flavorful accompaniment to roasted meats or vegetarian entrees.
  • Beetroot salad with goat cheese and walnuts provides a vibrant and textural salad. Combine cooked and cooled beet slices with creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette for a well-balanced and satisfying salad.
  • Beet juice is a healthy and revitalizing beverage. Freshly juiced beets are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Mix with other fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, and ginger for a delicious and health-boosting juice blend.
  • Pickled beets are a classic preservation method to enjoy beets year-round. Brine cooked beets in a vinegar-based solution with spices like cloves and peppercorns for a tangy and flavorful condiment or addition to sandwiches and salads.
  • Beetroot risotto is a visually stunning and flavorful twist on traditional risotto. The beet juice or pureed beets add a beautiful pink hue and subtle earthy sweetness to the creamy rice dish. Pair with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a delightful meal.
  • Beet greens can be sauteed and enjoyed as a nutritious side dish, similar to spinach or Swiss chard. These leafy greens are packed with vitamins and minerals and offer a slightly bitter taste that complements garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Don't discard them!

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

43.0kcal (2.15%)

Protein

1.6g (3.22%)

Carbs

9.6g (3.48%)

Sugars

6.8g (13.52%)

Healthy Fat

0.1g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in nitrates, potentially improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
  • Excellent source of fiber, promoting digestive health and regularity.
  • Contains betalains, antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Good source of folate (vitamin B9), essential for cell growth and function.
  • Provides essential minerals like potassium, important for heart health and fluid balance.
  • May improve athletic performance due to its nitrate content, which can enhance oxygen utilization.

Storage Tips

Fresh beets should be stored unwashed, with their greens detached (leaving about an inch of stem), in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps them crisp. Beets stored this way can last for several weeks. Cooked beets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, beets can be pickled or frozen. To freeze, cook the beets until tender, then cool, peel, and slice or dice before freezing in a freezer-safe bag or container.

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