Prepare to transform the humble beet into a culinary masterpiece that will have your guests begging for the recipe! Our Cedar Planked Citrus Beets are not just a side dish; they're a flavor explosion that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with a bright citrus marinade and the smoky essence of cedar. This isn't just cooking - it's an experience that elevates a simple vegetable into a gourmet sensation that will make you look like a professional chef in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets, peeled and sliced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cedar plank for grilling
Instructions
- Soak the cedar plank in water for at least 1 hour before grilling to prevent burning and create steam during cooking.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F (204-232°C).
- Peel the beets and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch thick rounds to ensure even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine fresh orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a citrus marinade.
- Toss the sliced beets in the citrus marinade, ensuring each slice is evenly coated.
- Remove the cedar plank from water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Arrange the marinated beet slices in a single layer on the cedar plank, slightly overlapping if necessary.
- Place the cedar plank with beets on the preheated grill and close the lid.
- Grill for 25-30 minutes, or until beets are tender and have light char marks, rotating the plank once halfway through cooking.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving.
Tips
- Plank Preparation is Key: Always soak your cedar plank for at least an hour to prevent burning and create amazing steam infusion.
- Slice Uniformly: Cut beets to exactly 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Marinade Magic: Don't rush the marinating process - let the beets sit in the citrus mixture for maximum flavor absorption.
- Grill Temperature Matters: Maintain a consistent 400-450°F for perfect caramelization without burning.
- Watch the Char: Light char marks add depth of flavor, but be careful not to overcook.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the beets to rest for 5 minutes after grilling to let the flavors settle and juices redistribute.
- Optional Elevation: Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to add a final gourmet touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg