What Goes Well With Beets? 15 Best Side Dishes

Let me share with you a love of mine, one that is beautifully earthy and wonderfully sweet. Yes, you've guessed it: beets. Their deep, rich hues of red and purple captivate the eye, while their subtly sweet taste enchants the palate.

But the magic of beets truly comes to life when you pair them with just the right side dishes. So, let's delve into my 15 top choices.

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with beets are steamed vegetables, green beans, salad Nicoise, goat cheese dip, radish chips, potato rosti, zucchini noodles, roasted asparagus, quinoa salad, crispy kale chips, hummus, sautéed spinach, feta and watermelon salad, and corn on the cob.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Steamed Vegetables

There's an understated charm about a plate of assorted steamed vegetables. Their vibrant colors and diverse textures create a visual feast, while their mild flavors provide a balance to the sweetness of the beets. Opt for a mix of broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower - they work splendidly.

2. Green Beans

The vibrant crunch of green beans is a delightful contrast to the soft texture of beets. Whether you like them lightly steamed, sautéed with a bit of garlic, or roasted for a deeper flavor, they make a winning combination with beets. And let's not overlook the aesthetics - the green of the beans against the red of the beets is simply stunning.

3. Salad Nicoise

A classic Salad Nicoise with a twist - beets! The combination of rich tuna, tangy vinaigrette, and creamy eggs creates a complete, balanced meal. The beets add a sweet note, elevating the entire salad to new heights. It's a wonderful way to incorporate beets into your meal, and trust me, it's divine.

4. Goat Cheese Dip

Goat cheese and beets share an unparalleled compatibility. The tanginess of the goat cheese is the perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of the beets, creating a symphony of flavors. It doesn't matter if your beets are boiled, roasted, or pickled, this goat cheese dip is a must-have.

5. Radish Chips

If you're looking for a side dish that's a bit more adventurous, give radish chips a go. Their crisp texture and slightly peppery flavor offer a unique contrast to the sweetness of beets. Plus, they're a healthier alternative to traditional potato chips, making your beet meal even more wholesome.

6. Potato Rosti

Ah, potato rosti, the golden, crispy delight. Its robust, earthy flavor harmonizes wonderfully with beets. The crispiness of the rosti provides a pleasant contrast to the soft beets, while its hearty flavor complements the sweet and earthy notes of the beets.

7. Brussels Sprouts With Bacon

Brussels sprouts and bacon - a match made in culinary heaven. Add beets to the mix, and you've got a side dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. The caramelized sprouts and crispy, salty bacon pair excellently with the sweetness of the beets, creating a mouthwatering medley of flavors.

8. Zucchini Noodles

For a low-carb, yet flavorful side dish, try pairing beets with zucchini noodles, also known as "zoodles". Their lightness and mild flavor balance the sweet richness of the beets perfectly. You can serve them raw for a delightful crunch, or sauté them lightly in garlic and olive oil for a more tender, yet equally delicious, version.

9. Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus makes a wonderful companion to beets. Their firm texture and slightly bitter taste provide a great contrast to the sweetness of the beets. Just roast them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple and delicious side dish.

10. Quinoa Salad

Pair your beets with a bright and refreshing quinoa salad. The nutty flavor of the quinoa, combined with the crunch of fresh veggies, and the tanginess of a simple vinaigrette, complements the sweet beets perfectly. Add a bit of feta cheese for a hint of creaminess, and you have a side dish that's both nutritious and full of flavor.

11. Crispy Kale Chips

Looking for a side dish that's both tasty and healthy? Try crispy kale chips. Their crunchy texture and earthy flavor are a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the beets. Plus, they're easy to make – just toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with a bit of sea salt, and roast until crispy.

12. Hummus

Hummus and beets may seem like an unlikely pairing, but trust me, they're fantastic together. The creaminess of the hummus, along with its subtle flavors, create a beautiful balance with the sweetness of the beets. Plus, it adds a boost of protein to your meal.

13. Sauteed Spinach

Sautéed spinach is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs well with beets. The slight bitterness of the spinach offsets the sweetness of the beets, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. For extra flavor, sauté your spinach with some garlic and a splash of lemon juice.

14. Corn on the Cob

There's something about grilled corn on the cob that just screams summer. The slightly charred kernels add a smoky flavor that balances out the sweetness of the beets. Add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of salt, and you've got a tasty side dish that everyone will love.

15. Feta and Watermelon Salad

If you're looking for a refreshing and unique side dish, try a feta and watermelon salad. The sweet and juicy watermelon, combined with the tangy feta cheese, offers a delightful contrast to the earthy sweetness of the beets. It's a perfect side dish for a hot summer day.

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