| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hour | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 140 | 7g | 1g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 14g | 3g | 3g | 0.1g |
As a Southern belle, I bring a touch of Charleston, South Carolina finest to everything I create, and my recipe for Roasted Beets with Balsamic Glaze is no exception. This recipe is a vivid ensemble of mouthwatering flavors blended into a symphony that dances on the palate. Think unforgettable appetizer or delightful side dish filled with earthy, sweet, and tangy goodness that is sure to be a conversation starter at any dinner party. Oh, and let’s not forget about the nutritive powerhouse these crimson bulbs offer, making this dish both alluring and health-boosting.
A Southern Spin on a Classic Root Vegetable
Now, while beets may not be your typical Southern vegetable, they’ve found a special place in my culinary repertoire. Roasting, in particular, deepens their natural sweetness, much like it does to other root vegetables such as sweet potatoes that are quintessential to Southern cuisine. The balsamic glaze in this recipe pays homage to classic Southern barbeque sauces’ tangy undertones, resulting in a uniquely Southern fusion.
Pairings and Platings
Roasted Beets with Balsamic Glaze pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. A bright, citrusy Cilantro Lime Quinoa can balance the earthy sweetness of the beets, or consider a rich homemade Pimiento Cheese as a flavorful contrast. To keep up with the Southern theme, you might want to serve it alongside a perfectly roasted chicken with all the trimmings, or even a platter of my beloved shrimp and grits. Undoubtedly, this beet recipe is versatile and fits into a host of meal plans seamlessly.
Health Benefits Abound for Beet Lovers
The health benefits of beets cannot be overemphasized. They’re a potent source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, all vital for cardiovascular health. Their rich, red color comes from betalain, a phytonutrient well-known for its anti-inflammatory and detoxification properties. Combined with a heart-healthy dose of olive oil and the antioxidative props of balsamic vinegar, Roasted Beets with Balsamic Glaze is a delicacy you can indulge in without a twinge of guilt.
So why do I love the Roasted Beets with Balsamic Glaze recipe? Because it makes the humble beet the belle of the ball, dancing in a sweet-tangy glaze that’s Southern to its core, good for our bodies, and a pleasure to share with the people we love. Now, isn’t that what good food and good cooking are all about?
What You’ll Need
- 6 medium beets, trimmed and cleaned
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Place the trimmed and cleaned beets on a large piece of aluminum foil, drizzle them with the olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste. Fold the foil over the beets to make a tight packet.
Step Two
Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and roast in the oven until the beets are tender when pierced with a knife, about 1 hour. Carefully open the packet and let the beets cool slightly.
Step Three
While the beets are cooling, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the mixture is reduced by half, about 15 minutes. It should have a syrupy consistency. Add the chopped thyme leaves and stir to combine.
Step Four
Once the beets are cool enough to handle, use a paper towel to rub off their skins. Slice the beets into wedges and place them in a serving dish.
Step Five
Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted beets and gently toss until all the wedges are coated. Serve warm or at room temperature, as desired.
