Get ready to transform your ordinary vegetable side into an extraordinary culinary experience! Our Beets in Onion Vinaigrette recipe is about to revolutionize the way you think about this often-overlooked root vegetable. Imagine tender, jewel-toned beets bathed in a zesty, flavor-packed vinaigrette that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're a beet enthusiast or a curious foodie looking to expand your palate, this simple yet sophisticated dish promises to be a show-stopper at your next meal.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets, peeled and quartered
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the beets thoroughly under cool running water, then peel them using a vegetable peeler. Cut each beet into quarters to ensure even cooking.
- Place the quartered beets in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the beets' natural flavor.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the beets for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- While the beets are cooking, finely chop the onion into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution in the vinaigrette.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, chopped onion, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the vinaigrette.
- Once the beets are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them cool for 5 minutes to handle safely.
- Transfer the warm beets to a serving dish and pour the onion vinaigrette over them, gently tossing to coat evenly.
- Allow the beets to marinate in the vinaigrette for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors before serving.
- Serve the beets warm or at room temperature as a side dish or salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beets: Look for firm, smooth beets with vibrant color and fresh-looking greens (if attached). Smaller beets tend to be more tender and sweet.
- Peeling Hack: To make peeling easier, wear disposable gloves to prevent staining your hands. A vegetable peeler works best for removing the skin smoothly.
- Cooking Precision: Don't overcook! Test beets with a fork - they should be tender but still have a slight resistance. Overcooked beets become mushy and lose their beautiful texture.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider roasting the beets instead of boiling. This concentrates their natural sweetness.
- Vinaigrette Tip: Let the beets marinate in the vinaigrette for at least 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the warm vegetables.
- Serving Suggestion: This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
- Storage: Leftover beets can be refrigerated for 3-4 days, allowing the flavors to continue developing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 100kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
