Beetroot has made a comeback in recent years, maybe because of it’s gorgeous colour (great for Instagram, especially the candy beetroot), it’s popularity to turn juices a deep red and also maybe for its health benefits. Beetroot is said to help lower blood pressure, help control diabetes, keep you ‘regular’ and also aid sports performance due to its level of nitrates.
Beetroot is also a little like Marmite – as Delia states, people either love it or hate it. Regardless, you’ll love these healthy ways to eat beetroot; some mask the taste, such as the cakes, but others bring it out, for example in the salads.
Beetroot is either loved or hated – mostly the latter I suspect, because in this country people have a surfeit of it doused in strong vinegar. But its lovers know of its earthy charm and delicious but distinctive flavour.
DELIA SMITH
1. Smoothies & Juices
If you’re short of time, especially in the morning, then whizzing up beetroot in a juicer or even a blender is a great way to get in your veg. Try a combo of beetroot, carrot, ginger and lemon for a nutrient-packed drink.
Juice or blend beetroot with carrot and lemon for a delicious nutritious drink.
2. Salads and ‘Slaws
Coarsely grate a couple of raw beetroot and mix with grated carrot, a little parsley, olive oil and mustard or lemon juice for a quick and easy meal accompaniment.
A super easy and tasty side for any dish.
3. Roasted
Peel and chop beetroot before drizzling with a little mix of honey and balsamic vinegar. Add a sprinkle of thyme and roast them until soft and delicious. They also go well with roasted onions. Try this Thyme-Roasted Warm Vegetable Salad.
4. Dips
Add roughly chopped beetroot, chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of cumin and blitz to make a colourful dip. Serve with toasted sourdough soldiers or carrot batons and celery sticks.
Make a quick and easy beetroot for a unique, earthy flavour.
5. Baked sweet treats
It’s becoming more common to see beetroot as a main ingredient and there’s a reason why – not only do they provide extra deliciousness but they also help keep cakes and brownies soft. Speaking of beetroot brownies, Gourmet Glow has a great recipe for them.
Got any recipes featuring beetroot which you’d like to submit to Healthy Living London? We’d love to hear from you.
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