Roasted Beets
Roasted beets are a quick, easy, and delicious way to add vibrant color, natural sweetness, and a nutritious boost to your meals. This simple recipe highlights the earthy flavor of fresh beets enhanced by caramelization in the oven, with optional herbs and seasonings to customize your dish. Perfect as a healthy side or versatile addition to salads and main courses, roasted beets come together in under an hour and suit a variety of dietary needs.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 3-4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Main Ingredients
- Fresh Beets: 1 lb (about 3-4 medium-sized beets)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Sea Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh Herbs (Rosemary or Thyme): 1-2 teaspoons, chopped
- Honey: 1 tablespoon (for sweet and spicy variation)
- Chili Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (for sweet and spicy variation)
- Garlic Cloves: 2-3 whole, peeled (for herb infusion variation)
- Balsamic Glaze: 1-2 tablespoons (for finishing)
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to encourage caramelization and ensure the beets roast quickly and evenly, locking in natural sweetness.
- Prepare the Beets: Thoroughly wash the beets to remove dirt. Trim off the greens and roots. You may peel them before or after roasting; leaving the skin on during roasting helps retain moisture and flavor.
- Cut into Even Pieces: Slice the beets into uniform cubes or wedges about 1-inch thick for consistent roasting. Avoid cutting too thin to prevent drying out.
- Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning: Place the cut beets in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Toss well to coat each piece evenly. Add any optional herbs or additional seasonings at this point.
- Roast in the Oven: Spread the beets in a single layer on a parchment- or foil-lined baking sheet. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, turning halfway through to achieve even, golden-brown coloring and tender texture.
- Check for Doneness and Serve: Test a piece with a fork—it should slide in easily without resistance. Remove from oven once tender. Let cool slightly before serving or adding finishing touches like balsamic glaze or fresh herbs.
Notes
- Cut beets into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to prevent steaming; give beets room to roast properly.
- For faster cooking and locked-in moisture, wrap beets in foil before roasting.
- After roasting, skins slip off easily with a gentle rub—no peeler needed.
- Add a splash of citrus juice or vinegar after roasting to brighten flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 100g)
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: roasted beets, healthy side dish, easy vegetable recipe, vegan, gluten free, caramelized beets, simple roasting