I used to stare at that dusty can of beets in my pantry and wonder what on earth I could possibly do with it. Well, I have since discovered a treasure trove of ideas, and now I’m beyond excited to share 13 ridiculously good ways to transform that humble can. Get ready for vibrant pastas, stunning salads, and even a chocolate cake that will completely change the way you see beets.
1. Pickled Beets
Homemade pickled beets are way easier than you think, and they pack a punch of tangy, sweet flavor. I just simmer apple cider vinegar with a little sugar, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves, then pour it over the beets.
A night in the fridge does wonders, but if you can wait a full week, they become absolute magic. They’ll keep for a couple of months in there, but honestly, they won’t last that long.
2. Rice Paper Rolls
These rice paper rolls are the life of the party, all dressed up in a stunning pink from beet juice. I soak the wrappers just enough to pick up that gorgeous color, then stuff them with whatever crisp, fresh veggies I have on hand.
They look fancy and intimidating, but a little practice is all it takes to roll like a pro. Light, refreshing, and totally eye catching.
3. Beet Pesto Linguine with Ricotta and Homemade Breadcrumbs
Canned beets in pasta? Oh, I am so into this one.
I toss hot linguine with a luscious pesto made from beets, pistachios, and Parmesan, so every single strand gets coated in that earthy, nutty goodness. Then I shower the whole thing with toasty homemade breadcrumbs and a generous dollop of cool, creamy ricotta. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget beets ever came from a can.
4. Vegan Beet Quinoa Burgers
I’m not going to pretend these are beef burgers, but they absolutely satisfy that stacked sandwich craving. The patties come out of the pan with a gorgeous crispy crust and a tender, hearty center that holds together beautifully. Kidney beans, sautéed veggies, and herbs pack in so much savory depth, while the beets lend that stunning jewel tone and a whisper of sweetness that plays off the quinoa and beans perfectly.
5. Beet Hummus
This beet hummus is the snack hero I never knew I needed. I whirl together classic hummus ingredients with a can of beets, and suddenly I’ve got a swoon worthy pink spread that’s earthy, a little sweet, and absolutely stunning.
It takes less than 10 minutes, which makes it perfect for last minute guests or a solo pita chip party. And yes, it’s totally vegan and gluten free.
6. Strawberry Banana Beet Smoothie
I know it sounds a little wild, but beets in a smoothie are a total game changer. I blend frozen strawberries, a whole can of beets, a creamy banana, vanilla Greek yogurt, and a splash of milk until it’s silky and pink.
The taste is sweet and fruity with just a whisper of earthy depth. After the first sip, you’ll be tossing beets into every smoothie you make.
7. Healthy Beetroot Chocolate Cake
I promise, sliding a can of beets into chocolate cake is the best kind of kitchen mischief. Those beets bring natural sweetness, a beautiful ruby tone, and serious moisture to the crumb.
When they meet cocoa and dark chocolate, it’s a match made in dessert heaven. A glossy drizzle of melted chocolate on top finishes things off perfectly.
8. Mediterranean Arugula Salad
On days when a heavy meal feels like too much, I turn to this Mediterranean arugula salad. I toss peppery arugula with sliced beets, tangy feta, and a bright homemade Greek vinaigrette. It’s refreshing and light all on its own, or I’ll top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a meal that leaves me happy and full.
9. Mandarin Beet Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
When winter needs a bright pick me up, I make this mandarin beet salad with a zippy poppyseed dressing. I brush canned beets with olive oil and lemon and give them a quick char on the grill for a little smoky sweetness.
Warm beets and pecans mingle with chilly mandarin segments and crumbles of goat cheese. The poppyseed dressing? It’s a tangy, dreamy elixir that pulls every bite together.
10. Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill
Ten minutes and a handful of ingredients is all it takes for this salad that’s sweet, salty, and tangy in every single bite. I tumble canned beets with cool, crunchy cucumber, creamy feta, and a flurry of fresh dill.
A quick squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil brightens everything up. And can we talk about how gorgeous it is? That deep crimson against snowy white feta is pure drama on a plate.
11. Super Creamy Beet Pasta Sauce
This creamy beet pasta sauce is the kind of vibrant, swoon worthy dish that makes people think you fussed for hours. I just blend canned beets with pine nuts, lemon juice, olive oil, basil, mint, Parmesan, garlic, and a splash of pasta water until it’s silky smooth.
The result is this perfect tightrope walk between sweet and savory, with the beets’ gentle sweetness tamed by salty feta and woodsy pine nuts. Toss it with your favorite noodles and watch jaws drop.
12. Healthy Red Velvet Cookies
I know, red velvet cookies with beets sound a little out there, but hear me out: it’s actually how that iconic red hue got its start. These cookies are packed with simple, real ingredients like whole wheat flour, real butter, and yes, a can of beets. They come out soft, chocolatey, and perfectly sweet, giving you that guilt free treat moment you’ve been looking for.
13. Beet and Kale Salad with Apples and Creamy Tangy Dressing
This salad is a trend I can really get behind. Earthy sweet beets and hearty, crunchy kale get a fresh jolt from crisp apple slices.
But the real star is that creamy homemade dressing with a spicy horseradish kick. It’s the kind of salad that makes me feel all virtuous and completely satisfied at the same time.