As the seasons change and the days grow cooler, there’s a vibrant vegetable now in its prime that I’m excited to talk about—beetroot! This humble root is not just a colourful addition to your plate but a true nutritional powerhouse with numerous health benefits, making it a staple in my kitchen this time of year.

Exploring Different Types of Beetroot

Beetroot comes in a variety of colours and flavours, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types you might come across:

Red Beetroot: The most familiar variety, with a deep red hue and earthy, slightly sweet flavour. It’s great roasted, juiced, or used in soups.

Golden Beetroot: With its vibrant yellow-orange colour, golden beetroot has a milder, slightly sweeter taste compared to red beetroot. It doesn’t stain like its red counterpart, making it a great addition to salads and side dishes.

Chioggia Beetroot: Also known as ‘candy cane’ or ‘polka’ beetroot, this variety is visually striking with its concentric pink and white rings. It has a mild, slightly peppery taste and is best enjoyed raw or lightly cooked to preserve its beautiful pattern.

White Beetroot: This variety is sweeter and less earthy than the red beetroot. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a milder flavour but still want all the nutritional benefits. White beetroot works well in dishes where you want to avoid the strong colour of traditional beets.

Baby Beetroot: Smaller in size, baby beetroot is tender and sweet. They’re wonderful when roasted whole, added to salads, or even pickled for a burst of flavour.

Let’s dive into why beetroot deserves a spot on your menu and how you can make the most of it.

The Health Benefits of Beetroot

Beetroot isn’t just beautiful; it’s packed with goodness! Rich in essential nutrients like folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C, this root vegetable supports various aspects of our health:

Boosts Heart Health: Beetroot is high in nitrates, which convert to nitric oxide in the body, helping to relax and dilate blood vessels. This can lead to lower blood pressure and improved circulation—essential for maintaining heart health, especially as we navigate midlife.

Supports Detoxification: The betalains, which give beetroot its vibrant colour, also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support liver function and help the body’s natural detoxification process.

Supports Mental and Physical Performance: Beetroot’s ability to enhance oxygen use isn’t just great for physical stamina—it also supports mental performance. Enhanced oxygenation of the brain can lead to improved cognitive function, helping you stay sharp and focused, whether tackling a busy workday or enjoying your favourite hobbies.

Promotes Healthy Digestion: With its high fibre content, beetroot supports healthy digestion and regularity—vital for keeping our gut in check.

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Beetroot

Cooking with beetroot is a delight because it’s so versatile! Whether you enjoy it raw, roasted, pickled, or juiced, there are endless ways to incorporate this vibrant veggie into your meals. Just remember to wear gloves when you handle beetroot or you will end up with pink hands!

Here are some of my favourite ways to cook and enjoy beetroot:

Roasted Beetroot: Roasting brings out beetroot’s natural sweetness. Simply peel and cut into wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and your favourite herbs, then roast in the oven until tender. Roasted beetroot makes a wonderful side dish, salad topping, or addition to grain bowls.

Beetroot Salad: For a refreshing option, try a grated raw beetroot salad. Combine with carrots, apple, a splash of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil for a light, crunchy dish that’s full of fibre and flavour.

Beetroot Soup: A warming beetroot soup, like a classic borscht, is perfect for these cooler months. Blend cooked beetroot with vegetable stock, onion, garlic, and a touch of yoghurt or sour cream for a creamy, comforting bowl.

Beetroot Hummus: Add a pop of colour and nutrition to your dips with beetroot hummus. Blend cooked beetroot with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a vibrant, nutrient-packed spread that pairs beautifully with crudités or as a sandwich filling.

Beetroot Smoothie: For an easy way to sneak in some beetroot, blend it into your morning smoothie. Pair with berries, a banana, a handful of spinach, and a splash of almond milk for a naturally sweet, energising start to your day.

Meal Suggestions

Looking to add beetroot to your weekly menu? Here are some ideas:

Beetroot and Goat’s Cheese Salad: A classic combination of roasted beetroot, creamy goat’s cheese, and toasted walnuts over a bed of mixed greens. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a truly satisfying meal.

Beetroot Risotto: Add grated beetroot to a traditional risotto for a stunning pink hue and a nutritional boost. Top with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Beetroot Burgers: Blend cooked beetroot with quinoa, black beans, and spices for a hearty, plant-based burger that’s perfect for a healthy dinner.

Beetroot Tart: Layer thin slices of beetroot with caramelised onions and feta cheese on a puff pastry base for a simple yet impressive dish that’s great for entertaining.

Or why not try the classic Swedish open sandwich combination of beetroot salad with meatballs. One of my favourites whenever I go back and visit Sweden. Here is simple beetroot & apple salad recipe from ScandiKitchen that is perfect alongside meatballs or swap them out for some falafel. Give it a try and let me know how you liked it!

I hope this inspires you to bring beetroot into your kitchen this week. Not only is it in season and at its best right now, but it’s also an excellent way to support your health and enjoy some delicious, nutrient-rich meals.

Wishing you vibrant health and happy cooking!