Beet noodles are a vibrant and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. They’re naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and packed with nutrients. If you’re looking for a creative way to add more vegetables to your diet, beet noodles are a fantastic choice. This guide will show you exactly how to cook them perfectly every time.
### What are Beet Noodles?
Beet noodles, also known as beet “noodles” or beet spirals, are simply beets that have been spiralized or julienned into noodle-like strands. You can buy them pre-made at many grocery stores, or easily make them yourself with a spiralizer or vegetable peeler.
### Why You’ll Love Beet Noodles
* **Healthy:** Beets are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
* **Versatile:** They can be used in salads, stir-fries, pasta dishes, and more.
* **Easy to Cook:** Beet noodles cook quickly and easily.
* **Gluten-Free & Low-Carb:** A great option for those with dietary restrictions.
* **Delicious:** Beets have a unique, earthy sweetness that adds a wonderful flavor to any dish.
### How to Cook Beet Noodles: 3 Simple Methods
There are several ways to cook beet noodles, each offering slightly different textures. Here are three popular methods:
**1. Sautéing:**
Sautéing beet noodles is a quick and easy way to cook them while retaining a bit of their bite.
* **Instructions:**
1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the beet noodles to the skillet.
3. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender-crisp. The cooking time depends on the thickness of the noodles.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs.
* **Tips:**
* Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the beet noodles will steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if necessary.
* Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
**2. Steaming:**
Steaming is a gentle method that preserves the beet noodles’ nutrients and vibrant color.
* **Instructions:**
1. Place a steamer basket inside a pot with about an inch of water. Make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the basket.
2. Bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the beet noodles to the steamer basket.
4. Cover the pot and steam for 5-8 minutes, or until the beet noodles are tender.
5. Season as desired.
* **Tips:**
* Check the water level periodically to make sure the pot doesn’t run dry.
* Steaming time may vary depending on the thickness of your beet noodles.
**3. Boiling:**
Boiling is a simple and straightforward way to cook beet noodles.
* **Instructions:**
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the beet noodles and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender.
3. Drain the beet noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Season and serve.
* **Tips:**
* Don’t overcook the beet noodles, or they will become mushy.
* Rinsing the beet noodles with cold water also helps to remove excess starch.
### Tips for Cooking Perfect Beet Noodles
* **Don’t overcook:** Beet noodles cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. Overcooked beet noodles will be mushy and less appealing.
* **Season well:** Beets have a naturally sweet flavor, so they pair well with both savory and sweet seasonings. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to find your favorite combinations.
* **Pat them dry:** If you’re sautéing beet noodles, pat them dry with a paper towel before cooking. This will help them brown properly.
* **Add acid:** A little acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, can brighten up the flavor of beet noodles and balance their sweetness.
* **Get creative with toppings:** Beet noodles are a blank canvas for all sorts of toppings. Try them with pesto, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or your favorite sauce.
### Serving Suggestions
* **Salads:** Add cooked beet noodles to your favorite salad for a burst of color and nutrients.
* **Pasta Dishes:** Use beet noodles as a substitute for traditional pasta in your favorite pasta dishes.
* **Stir-Fries:** Toss beet noodles with stir-fried vegetables and protein for a healthy and flavorful meal.
* **Side Dish:** Serve beet noodles as a simple and colorful side dish.
### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I eat beet noodles raw?**
A: Yes, you can eat beet noodles raw, but they will be quite crunchy. Cooking them slightly softens them and brings out their natural sweetness.
**Q: How do I store leftover beet noodles?**
A: Store cooked beet noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
**Q: Can I freeze beet noodles?**
A: Freezing cooked beet noodles is not recommended, as they can become mushy when thawed.
**Q: What kind of spiralizer should I use?**
A: Any spiralizer will work for making beet noodles. Handheld spiralizers are inexpensive and easy to use, while countertop spiralizers are more stable and can handle larger quantities of vegetables. You can also use a vegetable peeler to create wide, ribbon-like noodles.
**Q: Can I use canned beets to make beet noodles?**
A: Fresh beets are recommended for the best flavor and texture. Canned beets tend to be softer and may not hold their shape as well when spiralized.
**Q: What are the nutritional benefits of beet noodles?**
A: Beet noodles are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a good source of folate, potassium, and vitamin C. Beets also contain antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage.
Enjoy experimenting with these vibrant and nutritious beet noodles! They’re a fun and healthy way to add more vegetables to your diet.