Roasting beets highlights their sweet earthy flavor. Making them can be a messy venture, but this recipe is less fuss and muss. After roasting you will see the fibrous exterior slips off the beet like an over sized sweater.
This gorgeous vegetable is of course naturally gluten free.
Not fond of cooked beets? This recipe lends itself to pickling and will give you a cold cooked beet if that is your preference. Peeling and grating a fresh raw beet will give you a healthy and tasty topping for a salad (which is very popular with kids).
If possible, buy your beets with the long green stems and leaves attached. Beet greens are chock full of nutrients and can be used in other recipes. Be sure to wash the beets well and chop off the tail and tops.
Health Benefits of Beets
Beets are high in potassium, magnesium, fiber, vitamins A/B/C, beta-carotene and folate.
Roasted Beets Recipe
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- Place a clean beet on a square of tinfoil large enough to pinch around the vegetable.
- Pour a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of water over the top of the beet.
- Shake a little salt and pepper over the top as well.
- Pinch the tinfoil to make a sealed little pouch (repeat for all of the beets).
- Place beets in an oven proof dish and into the oven.
- Cooking time will vary depending on the size and freshness of the beets you are using.
- Smaller, fresher beets may be ready in 30 minutes, while larger beets may take up to an hour.
- A fork should be easily inserted when they are ready.
- Let the beets cool until they can be touched and slip the exterior right off the beet.
- Now they are ready to eat! Eating them warm from the oven is my favorite. Try serving them sliced and topped with goat cheese or check out this easy pickling recipe.