Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of pickled beets, a culinary delight that has stood the test of time. Pickled beets, with their alluring mix of sweetness and tang, are a delicious topping that tantalizes the taste buds. Their jewel-toned hues, reminiscent of rubies, add an aesthetic appeal to any meal.
This versatile dish, made with sugar, white vinegar, peppercorns, kosher salt and a twist of orange zest, offers a delectable balance of flavor and texture. It’s a symphony of sweet and sour, with a gentle heat from the peppercorns and a refreshing citrus note from the orange zest, making each bite a memorable one.
Beyond their enticing taste, beets pack a nutritional punch. They’re rich in vitamins, fiber and essential minerals.
The Pickled Beets recipe shared here is flexible and open to adaptations. Want a fiery kick? Add in some chili flakes. Prefer a sweet-spicy tang? Try a dash of cinnamon. The possibilities are endless.
Pickled beets are not just a side dish, they can be used creatively in various recipes. Try them on a cheese board, toss them in salads or use them as a topping on pizzas and burgers for an added burst of flavor.
Tracing back to the roots, pickling vegetables was a preservation method used by our ancestors. Over the centuries, pickled beets have evolved from a way to preserve food to a beloved ingredient in many cuisines globally.
Dive into this culinary adventure and discover a new favorite recipe that could become a staple in your kitchen. We’re unveiling the secret to making perfect pickled beets and their versatile uses in everyday cooking.
Meal Inspirations with Pickled Beets
Pickled beets, with their robust flavor profile and vibrant color, can elevate a variety of meals and foods. Here are some inspiring ways to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your culinary repertoire:
- Salads – The sweet and tangy flavor of pickled beets pairs beautifully with fresh greens and creamy goat cheese, adding depth and complexity to any salad. Toss them with arugula, feta and walnuts for a refreshing, nutrient-packed meal.
- Sandwiches and Burgers – Use pickled beets as a unique topping to add a burst of flavor and color to your sandwiches and burgers. They work particularly well with grilled meats and strong cheeses, providing a delicious counterpoint to the savory ingredients.
- Cheese Boards – For an unexpected twist, place a small bowl of pickled beets on your next cheese board. Their sweetness will complement the richness of the cheese, while their tartness will cut through the fat, creating a balanced bite.
- Grain Bowls – Stir chopped pickled beets into quinoa or farro for a hearty and healthy grain bowl. Top with avocado, roasted vegetables and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Roasts – Pair pickled beets with slow-roasted meats like pork or beef. The acidity of the beets will help to cut through the richness of the meat, enhancing its flavor.
- Pizza – Top your pizza with a handful of pickled beets for a gourmet twist. They pair well with creamy cheeses like mozzarella and bold flavors like blue cheese or gorgonzola.
- Smoothies – For a surprising addition to your morning smoothie, try blending in some pickled beets. Their natural sweetness and vibrant color make them a great addition to any blend of fruits and veggies.
Each of these dishes showcases the versatility of this pickled beets recipe and how it can bring a new dimension of flavor to everyday meals. Whether they’re used as a garnish, a main ingredient or a surprising twist, pickled beets are sure to make any meal memorable.
On a Nutrisystem weight loss plan? You can count each serving of this recipe as one Extra.
Servings: 12
Calories per Serving: 35
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 Extra
Ingredients:
- 2 cups beets, trimmed and quartered
- 1/3 cup white sugar
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. orange zest
- 5 peppercorns
Directions:
- Roast the beets in the oven until soft. Let them cool and then remove the peel.
- Chop the beets and place them in a mason jar with the peppercorns.
- In a saucepan, heat sugar, vinegar, water, salt and orange zest to a boil. Remove from heat once sugar and salt have dissolved.
- Pour the liquid into the mason jar with the beets.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.