Earthy beetroot works well with a small honey glaze because the sweetness is balanced by vinegar, creamy goat's cheese and toasted nuts or seeds. This can be served warm or at room temperature.
Estimated serves: 4–6 as a side Estimated cooking: about 45 minutes
Recipe overview
This honey-roasted beetroot side combines roasted beetroot, a light honey glaze and creamy goat’s cheese. The same base can also work as a beetroot and goat’s cheese salad or, with a substitution, a beetroot-and-feta variation. The important balance is earthy beetroot, acidity, honey and a salty or creamy cheese element. The dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
- 800 g beetroot, peeled and cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 100 g soft goat's cheese
- 30 g walnuts or pepitas, toasted
- Small handful rocket or parsley
Method
- Heat the oven to 210°C conventional (190°C fan-forced).
- Toss beetroot with olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast on a lined tray for 30–40 minutes, turning once, until tender.
- Mix honey and balsamic vinegar. Toss through the hot beetroot and return to the oven for 3 minutes.
- Transfer to a platter and top with goat's cheese, nuts or seeds, and greens.
Can I roast whole beetroot?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer. Roast until tender, cool enough to handle, then peel and cut before adding the glaze.
Can I use pre-cooked beetroot?
Yes if it is plain, not heavily pickled. Dry it well and roast briefly to develop some surface colour before glazing.
Can I make it vegan?
Honey is not generally considered vegan, and goat's cheese is dairy. You would need both a different sweetener and a plant-based cheese alternative.
What honey is best?
Use a medium-flavoured honey that can stand up to beetroot and balsamic. This recipe is about balance rather than a particular grade.
Serve with Honey Balsamic Dressing, or compare with Honey-Roasted Carrots and Whipped Feta with Honey.
Allergen note: contains milk and may contain tree nuts depending on topping.
Recipe note: This recipe has been developed for home cooking but has not yet been independently kitchen-tested by Australian Honey Company. Results may vary with ingredients, equipment and cooking conditions.