Beets are a nutritional powerhouse known for their vibrant color and sweet taste. Whether roasted, boiled, or pickled, beets have become a delicious addition to many dishes. But have you ever wondered if they can be served cold?
Many people assume that beets should be served hot or at room temperature, but the truth is that they can be enjoyed cold as well. In fact, cold beets can be a refreshing addition to a light salad or a healthy snack on a hot summer day. But before you start refrigerating your leftover beets, let’s explore why and how you can serve them cold.
The Nutritional Value of Cold Beets
Beets are one of the healthiest vegetables that we can consume. These are commonly used in salads or roasted for a natural sweetness, but what about eating them cold? There is no substitute for the health benefits of cold beets which can offer us a range of vital nutrients. When cooked, beets become heavily concentrated with nutrients which can be lost when they are overheated.
Cold beets preserve their nutritional value that includes vitamins and minerals such as folate, potassium, and vitamin C. Additionally, beets are also rich in antioxidants and fiber that aid in digestion, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and reducing inflammation. All these beneficial nutrients in cold beets make it an ideal food for maintaining optimum health. So, eating cold beets is not only a delicious but also a nutritious option that can provide us the necessary vitamins and minerals required for a healthy body.
Cold Beet Salad Recipes to Try
Beet salads don’t always have to be served warm. Cold beet salads are refreshingly delicious and perfect for summertime meals. One recipe to try is a mixed greens and beet salad with a tangy orange vinaigrette. Simply boil the beets until tender, chop them up into bite-sized pieces, and toss with mixed greens, sliced red onion, crumbled goat cheese, and the dressing made from freshly squeezed orange juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard.
Another great recipe is a cold roast beet and quinoa salad. Roast the beets in the oven until tender and let them cool. Then, mix them with cooked quinoa, chickpeas, chopped mint, and a lemon vinaigrette. This salad is packed with nutrients, protein, and fiber, making it a great option for a light, filling lunch or dinner. Enjoy these cold beet salads for a refreshing twist on traditional beet dishes.
How to Properly Store and Prepare Cold Beets
To properly store beets that will be served cold, start by washing them thoroughly and removing the greens. Cut off the stems and tails, leaving about an inch of each. If you plan to store them for more than a couple of days, you can also peel the beets at this time. Cut them into the desired size and place them in a container with a lid. For best results, use an airtight container to prevent moisture from entering the container and causing the beets to spoil.
When you’re ready to use the beets, simply take them out of the fridge and let them come to room temperature before serving. If desired, you can add them to your favorite salad or create a beet-based appetizer. The beets’ sweet flavor and vibrant color make them perfect for a cold summer dish, and by following these simple steps, you can be sure that your beets will be properly stored and prepared.
Utilizing Cold Beets in Smoothies and Juices
Utilizing Cold Beets in Smoothies and Juices
Beets are an excellent way to add a touch of sweetness and plenty of nutritious benefits to any smoothie or juice. The natural sugars found in beets give a tasty flavor in any drink, making them an ideal addition to any morning or pre-workout shake. Furthermore, beets are an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, folate, and iron. By blending cold beetroot into shakes and smoothies, you can add a healthy nutritional twist to your drinks.
To make a delicious beetroot smoothie, extract the juice from one beetroot and add it to your blender. Combine the beetroot juice with berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, and a handful of spinach. You can add a banana to the mix for an additional level of creaminess. Blend the ingredients until smooth, then add a scoop of ice to chill it and enhance the flavor. With this simple recipe, you can have a refreshing and nutrient-rich drink that can help you stay hydrated and charged throughout the day.
The Best Beets for Serving Cold
When it comes to serving beets cold, it’s important to choose the right type of beet. Golden beets are a great choice for serving cold as they have a milder, sweeter flavor than their red counterparts. They also don’t have the same earthy flavor that some people find off-putting about beets. Additionally, golden beets retain their bright color when cooked, making them visually appealing when served cold.
Another great option for serving beets cold is chioggia beets, also known as candy cane beets. These beets have beautiful red and white stripes inside and are a bit milder in flavor than red beets. They also have a slightly sweeter taste and a crunchier texture when raw, making them a great addition to salads. Overall, both golden and chioggia beets are great choices for serving cold due to their mild, sweet flavor and attractive appearance.
Cold Beet Appetizers and Snack Ideas
Cold beet appetizers and snack ideas are a great way to incorporate this superfood into your diet. One popular option is cold beet hummus, which uses roasted beets as a base for a creamy and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with crackers or veggies. Another idea is to make beet chips by thinly slicing raw beets and baking them in the oven until crispy.
For a heartier option, try making cold beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts. Simply roast sliced beets and mix them with crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This salad is filling, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Other cold beet appetizers and snack ideas include beet gazpacho, beet and feta bruschetta, and beet tzatziki dip. Get creative and explore the many ways you can enjoy beets as a chilled appetizer or snack.
Is Refrigeration Necessary for Serving Beets Cold?
Refrigeration is not necessary for serving beets cold, but it can help to enhance their taste and texture. While beets can be consumed cold straight out of the pantry, chilly beets provide a refreshing taste on a hot day and are a perfect addition to salads.
When beets are refrigerated before serving, their sweetness and earthy flavor become enhanced, and the texture remains crunchy and firm. Additionally, refrigeration can extend the shelf life of cooked beets. Therefore, if you plan to serve beets cold over an extended period, it’s advisable to refrigerate them to prevent spoilage. Ultimately, while refrigeration is not mandatory for serving beets cold, it can help to achieve the best taste and texture possible.
Verdict
In conclusion, beets can definitely be served cold, and in fact, they can be a delicious addition to summer salads. Whether you roast them ahead of time or grate them raw, the earthy flavor and vibrant color of beets adds a refreshing twist to any dish. Additionally, their nutritional benefits make them a healthy choice for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.
While some people may be hesitant to try beets served cold, it’s worth giving it a chance. With the right preparation and pairing, beets can be a refreshing and satisfying addition to any summer meal. So next time you’re looking for a new ingredient to spice up your salads, don’t overlook the versatile beet!