If You Can’t Beet ’em

As we root through our cupboards this winter, we may come across this popular…root. Despite being highly regarded as a nutritional powerhouse most people pass on this root because of its earthy flavor (recipe here). Those who love it, LOVE IT. Yes, I’m referring to…

Beets.

9233914987_08fd965a93_m

photo credits: woodleywonderworks

Any way you slice them beets are an amazing source of all kinds of anti-oxidants and phytonutrients. More than being rich in these compounds, beets have certain compounds not commonly found in other plants. The scientific community touts their many benefits as being anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-carcinogenic. To maximize these benefits you should look to have a small beet or 1/2 a medium one twice a week.

Outside of their unique benefits, beets are also one of the best sources out there for folate, and a great source of potassium, vitamin C, iron, B6, and of course, fiber. The fiber found in beets (and carrots) has been found to be uniquely beneficial to overall digestive health.

In order to maximize their nutritional benefits, beets are best eaten raw. If steaming, try to keep it to 15 minutes, and an hour if roasting. Roasting brings beets to a whole new level of flavor because it breaks down the sugars in them, making them sweeter. Add some olive oil and garlic and you’re good to go. Beet skins also have a lot of nutrients in them, and they are edible, just make sure to scrub them very well.

2 Comments

Join the discussion and tell us your opinion.

Francinereply
January 9, 2015 at 11:28 am

Prior to this recipe I have found only ONE beet recipe I liked, beet chips (spicy yummy chips that are baked, but what alot of work?!). Salads are a big part of my eating, so this salad interested me.
Last night I made it! I followed the recipe (layers, etc) but added extra lemon juice b/c it seemed too thick).
Today I mixed up the salad.
Just terrific! The flavors marinated so by tonight it will be super yummy!
BTW, I plan on making and eating this salad often. (Wasn’t aware of the nutritional value of beets before reading Rena’s beet article. )

Renareply
January 11, 2015 at 10:22 pm
– In reply to: Francine

I’m so glad you liked it, Fran! It’s amazing how our bodies can learn to like new foods if we would just try them out from time to time!

Leave a reply