Beets with yogurt sauce is a delicious and versatile dish that pairs the earthy sweetness of roasted or boiled beets with a tangy and creamy yogurt sauce. It can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light main course. Here’s a simple recipe for you:
Beets with Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Beets:
- 4 medium-sized beets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tahini (optional, for added creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, chopped (or a mix of both)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Optional Garnishes:
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped walnuts or pine nuts
- Extra fresh herbs
Instructions:
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Prepare the Beets:
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Roasting Method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the beets and trim the tops and bottoms.
- Rub the beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary.
- Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Roast for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Let them cool, then peel and cut into wedges or cubes.
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Boiling Method:
- Wash the beets and trim the tops and bottoms.
- Place the beets in a pot of water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool, then peel and cut into wedges or cubes.
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Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, tahini (if using), lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped dill or parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For added sweetness, mix in honey or maple syrup, if desired.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Arrange the roasted or boiled beet pieces on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Spoon the yogurt sauce over the beets or serve it on the side for dipping.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Optionally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, chopped walnuts, or pine nuts over the top.
- Add extra fresh herbs if desired.
Tips:
- Beet Preparation: Roasting beets enhances their sweetness and flavor, but boiling is quicker if you’re short on time.
- Yogurt Sauce Variations: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a bit of grated horseradish to the yogurt sauce.
- Presentation: This dish can be served warm or chilled, making it versatile for different occasions.
Enjoy your beets with yogurt sauce!
