Canned Beets Vegan Recipe: Easy and Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Beets are a vibrant, nutritious root vegetable that can brighten up any meal with their deep red color and earthy sweetness. If you’re short on time or simply want a convenient option, canned beets are a fantastic pantry staple.

This canned beets vegan recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re a longtime beet lover or new to this root veggie, this recipe will show you how to transform canned beets into a delicious and versatile dish that fits perfectly into a plant-based lifestyle.

With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a colorful side dish to impress your guests. Plus, canned beets retain most of their health benefits, making them a smart and sustainable choice for busy cooks.

Let’s dive into this flavorful, wholesome vegan recipe that celebrates the natural goodness of beets!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a wonderful example of how convenience and nutrition can go hand in hand. Using canned beets saves you the hassle of peeling and boiling raw beets, which can be time-consuming and messy.

The natural sweetness of canned beets comes through beautifully, enhanced with a few simple ingredients to create a fresh, tangy, and satisfying dish.

It’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with vitamins, especially folate, manganese, and fiber. The recipe is incredibly versatile—you can serve it warm or cold, use it as a side, or toss it into salads and bowls for an extra pop of color and flavor.

It’s also budget-friendly and perfect for those who want a healthy dish in under 20 minutes.

For more easy and wholesome vegan ideas, check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or the vibrant Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) of sliced or whole beets, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon maple syrup or agave for a touch of sweetness

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork (for mixing dressing)
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Serving dish or bowl
  • Measuring spoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beets: Drain the canned beets thoroughly and rinse under cold water to remove excess brine. If using whole beets, slice them into bite-sized pieces or thin rounds as preferred.
  2. Make the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, finely chopped shallot, and maple syrup if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Toss the beets: Add the prepared beets to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the beets are evenly coated with the tangy dressing.
  4. Chill or serve: For best flavor, let the beet salad sit for at least 10 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld. You may also serve it immediately if pressed for time.
  5. Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving for a fresh, herbal note and a pop of green color.

Tips & Variations

“To elevate your canned beet dish, try adding toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch, or mix in a handful of arugula for a peppery bite. A sprinkle of vegan feta or nutritional yeast can add depth to the flavor profile.”

If you want a heartier meal, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas to the salad for protein. You can also experiment with different vinegars like apple cider or red wine vinegar.

For an Asian-inspired twist, swap balsamic vinegar for rice vinegar and add a splash of sesame oil and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 120 kcal
Carbohydrates 14 g
Fiber 3 g
Protein 2 g
Fat 7 g
Vitamin C 4 mg (6% DV)
Folate 80 mcg (20% DV)
Potassium 305 mg (9% DV)

Serving Suggestions

This canned beet salad shines as a colorful side dish alongside grilled vegetables or vegan protein options like baked tofu or tempeh. It’s also wonderful served chilled atop a bed of mixed greens or tossed into grain bowls.

For a simple lunch, spread some vegan cream cheese on toasted bread and layer the beet salad on top for a vibrant open-faced sandwich. Or use it as a tangy topping for your homemade flatbreads.

Looking for more inspiration? Explore our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes or try the refreshing Lemon Straws Recipe for a sweet treat to complement your meal.

Conclusion

This canned beets vegan recipe is a perfect example of how a simple pantry staple can be transformed into a delicious, nutritious dish with minimal effort. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and offers a wonderful way to incorporate beets into your diet without the fuss of cooking raw ones.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based foodie, this recipe is versatile enough to suit many occasions—from casual lunches to elegant dinners.

Don’t let canned beets sit unused in your pantry. With this recipe, you can enjoy their health benefits and sweet, earthy flavor in a fresh, tangy salad that’s sure to become a favorite.

For more creative recipes and cooking tips, don’t forget to check out our other posts like the Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe (for non-vegan options) or the delightful Halibut Dip Recipe to round out your culinary repertoire.

📖 Recipe Card: Canned Beets Vegan Salad

Description: A simple and refreshing vegan salad using canned beets, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal. This recipe combines beets with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) canned beets, drained and sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Drain and slice the canned beets.
  2. In a large bowl, combine beets, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the beet mixture and toss gently to combine.
  5. Sprinkle toasted walnuts on top if using.
  6. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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