Beets are a vibrant, nutrient-dense root vegetable that add a pop of color and a natural sweetness to any dish. Perfect for vegan cooking, beets offer versatility and a wealth of health benefits, from boosting your immune system to enhancing digestion.
Whether roasted, steamed, or blended, beets can transform simple meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. If you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based recipes into your weekly menu, beet recipes are an excellent starting point.
They are easy to prepare, delicious, and provide a wonderful base for creative vegan dishes that are as satisfying as they are healthy.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a variety of vegan beet recipes that showcase different cooking methods and flavor profiles. From hearty salads to comforting soups and colorful sides, these recipes are designed to inspire you to enjoy beets in new and exciting ways.
Plus, you’ll find tips on preparation, serving suggestions, and nutrition facts to help you get the most from this beautiful vegetable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beets are not only packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants but also bring a naturally sweet and earthy flavor that complements a broad range of dishes. These vegan beet recipes are easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and common kitchen equipment, making them perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
You’ll love the versatility of beets in these recipes. They can be roasted to bring out their sweetness, grated raw for crisp salads, or pureed into creamy soups.
The vibrant color makes each dish visually appealing, and their health benefits add a nutritious boost to your meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a hearty main course, or a colorful side, these recipes will fit seamlessly into your plant-based lifestyle.
Ingredients
- Fresh beets (red or golden), 3 medium-sized
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons
- Lemon juice, 2 tablespoons
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced
- Salt, 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Pepper, ½ teaspoon freshly ground
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro), 2 tablespoons chopped
- Vegan yogurt or tahini, ¼ cup (optional for creamy dressings)
- Maple syrup, 1 teaspoon (optional for roasting glaze)
- Vegetable broth, 4 cups (for soup recipe)
- Red onion, 1 small, thinly sliced
- Walnuts or pecans, ½ cup toasted (optional for salad)
- Carrots, 2 medium, shredded (optional for salad)
Equipment
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Blender or immersion blender (for soup)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Salad spinner (optional for washing greens)
- Oven mitts
Instructions
- Prepare the beets: Start by rinsing the beets under cold water to remove any dirt. Peel the beets using a vegetable peeler or by roasting them whole and slipping off the skins once cooled.
- Roasting method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the peeled beets into 1-inch cubes. Toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and maple syrup if using. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through until tender and caramelized.
- Raw beet salad: For a fresh salad, grate one raw beet into thin strips. Mix with thinly sliced red onion, shredded carrots, chopped walnuts, and fresh herbs. Dress with a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine.
- Beet soup: In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add diced beets and pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until beets are soft. Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Stir in vegan yogurt or tahini for creaminess, adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Garnish roasted beets with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Serve beet soup with a swirl of vegan yogurt and crusty bread on the side. Enjoy your salad as a refreshing side or light meal.
Tips & Variations
“To avoid beet stains on your hands, wear kitchen gloves or rub your hands with lemon juice after handling.”
- Try different beet varieties: Golden beets are less earthy and slightly sweeter, which can add a nice variation to your dishes.
- Add spices: For a twist, sprinkle roasted beets with cumin, smoked paprika, or fresh ginger during cooking.
- Use beet greens: Don’t discard the greens! Sauté them with garlic and olive oil or add to smoothies for extra nutrition.
- Beet hummus: Blend roasted beets with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a vibrant dip.
- Pickled beets: Quick-pickle sliced beets in vinegar, sugar, and spices for a tangy addition to sandwiches and salads.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup roasted beets) |
---|---|
Calories | 75 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 17 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Fat | 0.2 g |
Vitamin C | 8% DV |
Folate | 20% DV |
Potassium | 9% DV |
Iron | 6% DV |
Serving Suggestions
These beet recipes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve roasted beets alongside quinoa or brown rice and steamed greens for a balanced vegan meal.
Beet soup makes a comforting starter or a light main course, especially when accompanied by warm, crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
For a vibrant lunch, toss the raw beet salad with mixed greens and avocado slices for healthy fats. Add some toasted nuts or seeds for crunch and extra protein.
Beet hummus works as a fantastic dip for fresh vegetables or spread on sandwiches and wraps.
To explore more creative vegan vegetable dishes, try these recipes:
- Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals
- Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners
- Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes
Delicious Vegan Beet Recipes to Try
Roasted Beet and Walnut Salad
This salad combines the sweetness of roasted beets with crunchy walnuts and fresh herbs. Tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing, it’s a perfect side or light lunch.
Creamy Vegan Beet Soup
A smooth, velvety soup made by pureeing roasted or boiled beets with vegetable broth and vegan yogurt. It’s comforting and packed with nutrients.
Beet and Carrot Slaw
Grated raw beets and carrots mixed with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing make a refreshing and crunchy slaw that’s great on sandwiches or as a side.
Beet Hummus
A vibrant twist on classic hummus, blending roasted beets with chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic. This dip is not only beautiful but also delicious and nutritious.
Pickled Beet Slices
Quick-pickled beets with vinegar, sugar, and spices add a tangy bite to salads, sandwiches, or grain bowls. They’re easy to prepare and last well in the fridge.
Beet and Quinoa Buddha Bowl
Roasted beets, quinoa, sautéed greens, avocado, and toasted seeds come together in this colorful, nutrient-packed bowl. Drizzle with tahini dressing for a satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Beets are truly a superfood that deserve a place in every vegan kitchen. Their brilliant color, natural sweetness, and impressive nutrition profile make them a standout ingredient for a variety of plant-based dishes.
From hearty roasted beet salads to creamy soups and bright slaws, these recipes show just how versatile and delicious beets can be.
Cooking with beets is not only easy but also rewarding, with endless opportunities to experiment with flavors and textures. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based chef, incorporating beets into your meals adds freshness, nutrition, and a delightful burst of color.
For more inspiring vegan vegetable recipes, be sure to check out our other favorites like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.
Happy cooking and enjoy the vibrant world of beets!
📖 Recipe Card: Roasted Beet and Quinoa Salad (Vegan)
Description: A vibrant and nutritious vegan salad featuring roasted beets and fluffy quinoa. Perfect as a light meal or side dish.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 medium beets, peeled and diced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss diced beets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on a baking sheet.
- Roast beets for 30 minutes until tender.
- While beets roast, bring water to a boil and cook quinoa for 15 minutes; drain and fluff.
- In a bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
- Combine roasted beets, quinoa, parsley, and walnuts; toss with dressing.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, then serve.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 38 g
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