Friday, March 7, 2014

Beets in Vinaigrette


I grew up with a disdain for beets.  I suppose it’s because my mother only ever served them pickled, right from the jar.  My dad loved them; I held my nose and tried to choke them down.  That was my one and only experience with beets.  It left a scar.

Decades later, enter Melissa’s Produce and their Peeled and Steamed Baby Beets. I was wary of tasting them but, wow, what a revelation!  As Tony the Tiger would say, They're great!  With a fresh-from-the-garden taste, these French-grown beets have a slice-and-serve convenience that every busy cook will appreciate.  Serve them warm, toss them into salads, or whip up this very simple vinaigrette and leave them in the fridge until you're ready for them.  They add a splash of color and a touch of elegance to any meal.  Your guests will be amazed. 

Beets in Vinaigrette
Adapted from a recipe in Gourmet, January 2008

2-1/2 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon Kosher salt
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Cut beets into ¼” slices and arrange on a plate (if serving immediately) on in a container (if storing in the fridge).  Set aside.

Whisk together vinegar, onion, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.  Add oil in a slow stream, whisking constantly to emulsify.  Stir in parsley.  Pour over beets.  Garnish with kale sprouts and serve.


3 comments:

The Quintessential Magpie said...

That is so pretty, and I am a beet lover from childhood!

Marigene said...

I have always loved beets, especially when they are roasted. Beautiful presentation, Pattie.

~~louise~~ said...

Hi Pattie!

You sure do like Melissa's Produce! I've been thinking about doing some shopping online. When I'm ready, is it okay if I ask you for some tips?

I don't remember liking beets when I was a kid either. I think my mother use to boil them. All I can remember is that red mess! (which I of course had to clean up) I often see beets for sale on the side of the road here in PA. I would love to buy them and roast them but I just can't get past that mess I remember cleaning up. Perhaps this year OR, Melissa's! Your beets look so refreshing, I sure would love a taste right now! Thank you so much for sharing, Pattie...