Why You’ll Love Sweet and Creamy Beets Recipe
If you’ve ever struggled to make beets appeal to picky eaters or those wary of their natural earthiness, this recipe delivers a flavorful balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy that wins people over. The roasting process brings out the beets’ natural sweetness, honey softens their flavor, and the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
beets (about 18 to 20 ounces total), trimmed, peeled, and diced
olive oil
salt
freshly ground black pepper
sour cream
honey
sesame seeds
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Trim and peel the beets, then cut them into roughly 1/2‑inch cubes.
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On the prepared baking sheet, toss the diced beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated and spread them into a single layer.
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Roast in the oven until the oil is sizzling and the beets start to dry slightly, about 15 minutes. Stir and turn the beets, then continue roasting about 15 minutes more until they are darker and lightly caramelized.
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Remove the beets from the oven and let them cool on the pan until they are just warm or at room temperature.
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While the beets are cooling, whisk together the sour cream and honey in a medium bowl until smooth.
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When the beets have cooled, fold them and the sesame seeds into the honey‑sour cream mixture until evenly coated.
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Serve immediately, or for a thicker texture and more melded flavors, chill in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves: about 4 people
Total time: roughly 1 hour (includes roasting and cooling time)
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes roasting plus cooling time
Variations
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Substitute full‑fat plain Greek yogurt for the sour cream for a tangier twist.
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Use golden beets for a milder, sweeter flavor and bright color contrast.
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Toast the sesame seeds before adding them for a deeper nutty flavor.
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Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because this is a cold or room‑temperature salad, reheating isn’t necessary; simply let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving if chilled.
FAQs
What type of beets should I use?
You can use red beets for the classic color and flavor, or golden beets if you prefer a milder taste.
Do I need to peel the beets before roasting?
Yes, peeling after trimming makes the texture smoother and ensures the dressing sticks well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the salad a few hours ahead and chill it for deeper flavor.
Is there a substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can work as alternatives to honey.
Can I add other ingredients?
You can add diced apples or toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Why roast the beets instead of boiling?
Roasting enhances sweetness and caramelization, giving more flavor depth.
How do I toast sesame seeds?
Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir until slightly golden and fragrant.
Can I serve this warm?
Yes, serve it at room temperature or slightly warm; refrigeration is optional.
What goes well with creamy beets?
This pairs nicely with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a holiday spread.
Are there any dietary considerations?
This recipe is vegetarian and can be made gluten‑free depending on ingredient brands.
Conclusion
Sweet and Creamy Beets are a vibrant, easy side dish that brings out the best in a humble vegetable. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish that’s both kid‑friendly and sophisticated enough for guests. Whether you’re new to beets or a longtime fan, this recipe is a terrific way to enjoy them.
