Beets are versatile and nutritious, perfect for soups, salads, smoothies, and side dishes. Experiment with different methods to find your favorite way to enjoy their earthy sweetness!
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How to Tell if Beets Are Good When Grocery Shopping
- Firmness: Choose beets that feel firm and heavy for their size. Avoid any that are soft or shriveled.
- Skin Appearance: Look for smooth, unblemished skin without cuts or deep cracks.
- Size: Smaller beets tend to be sweeter and more tender, while larger ones may be tougher and earthier.
- Leaves: If the beet greens are attached, they should be bright, fresh, and not wilted. Greens can also indicate freshness.
How to Prep and Store for Maximum Freshness
- Remove the Greens: Cut off the greens about 1–2 inches above the root to prevent moisture loss. Keep the greens for later use in salads or sautés.
- Clean the Beets: Gently rinse to remove any loose dirt but avoid scrubbing hard before storage to maintain their protective skin.
- Storage Method: Store beets in a breathable produce bag or perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. Keep them dry to prevent rot.
- Greens Storage: Wrap beet greens in a damp paper towel, place them in a plastic bag, and store in the refrigerator.
How Long Beets Stay Fresh
- Raw Beets: Can last up to 2–3 weeks when stored in the refrigerator.
- Greens: Stay fresh for 2–3 days in the refrigerator.
How Long Cooked Beets Stay Fresh
- Refrigerated Cooked Beets: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
- Frozen Cooked Beets: Can last 8–12 months when stored in a freezer-safe container or bag.
How to Prepare Beets for Cooking
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt.
- Trim: Cut off the greens and root tail, leaving about 1–2 inches of stem to minimize bleeding.
- Peeling: Optional before cooking. Beet skin often peels off easily after cooking, so peeling beforehand isn’t necessary unless required for a specific recipe.
- Cut or Leave Whole: Small beets can be cooked whole, while larger ones can be halved or quartered for quicker cooking.
Ways to Cook Beets
Boiling
- Place whole or cut beets in a pot of water, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30–45 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain, let cool, and peel by rubbing the skin off with your fingers or a paper towel.
Roasting
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss whole or cut beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Wrap whole beets in foil or place cut beets on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30–45 minutes until fork-tender, turning halfway through.
Steaming
- Place beets in a steamer basket over boiling water.
- Cover and steam for 25–30 minutes or until tender.
Microwaving
- Place beets in a microwave-safe dish with a few tablespoons of water.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid.
- Microwave on high for 8–12 minutes, checking for doneness.
Grilling
- Slice beets into rounds or wedges.
- Toss with oil and seasonings.
- Grill over medium heat for 10–15 minutes per side until tender.
