Roasting beets is a game-changer for your dinner table. Their natural sweetness intensifies in the oven, creating a rich, earthy flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a beet enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these easy oven-roasted beet recipes promise to deliver delicious results with minimal effort.
Perfect for adding a pop of color and nutrition to any meal, these recipes might just become your go-to for simple, tasty dinners. Let’s get cooking!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F to get it ready for roasting.
- Prepare the beets by cutting off their tops and giving them a thorough scrub to clean.
- Tear off pieces of aluminum foil and place one beet on each piece. Drizzle the beets with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before wrapping them tightly in the foil.
- Arrange the foil-wrapped beets on a baking sheet and put them in the oven. Roast them until a fork easily pierces through; this could take 35 to 60 minutes, depending on the size.
- Once roasted, take the beets out of the oven and let them cool. When they are cool enough to handle, remove the foil and peel off the skins by hand, which should come off easily.
- Slice the beets and drizzle them with olive oil. Season them with salt and pepper, and they are ready to serve. You can enhance the flavor further with citrus juice or herbs, depending on your preference.
Ingredients
- 6 medium-sized beets, tops removed and thoroughly scrubbed
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
FAQ
- Is it necessary to peel beets before roasting them?
- It’s not necessary to peel beets before roasting. In fact, peeling them after they are cooked is easier, as the skins slide off effortlessly. This method also helps retain the beets’ natural moisture during roasting.
- How long do roasted beets last when stored?
- Roasted beets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be served cold or reheated in the microwave. Additionally, they can be frozen for up to three months.
- What are some ways to serve roasted beets?
- Roasted beets can be served as a simple side dish with olive oil and salt or enhanced with garnishes such as balsamic vinegar, citrus juice, fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or crumbled cheese. They can also be incorporated into dishes like beet salad or beet hummus.
- What is the recommended oven temperature for roasting beets?
- The ideal oven temperature for roasting beets is 400°F. This temperature ensures the beets are cooked thoroughly, becoming tender and flavorful.
- Can I prepare roasted beets in advance?
- Yes, roasted beets are one of the few vegetables that can be prepared ahead of time. They maintain their flavor and texture when stored properly, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
Tips
- Peel the beets after roasting to make the process easier and to help retain their moisture during cooking.
- To simplify cleanup when peeling cooked beets, slip the skins off under running water.
- For storage, keep roasted beets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze them for up to three months.
- Enhance the flavor of roasted beets by adding drizzles of sherry or balsamic vinegar, citrus juice or zest, fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or crumbled cheese before serving.
Equipment
- Aluminum foil
- Baking sheet
