If you are looking for a vibrant and unexpectedly delightful way to enjoy beets, this Roasted Beet Noodles with Goat Cheese and Pecans Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine tender, slightly roasted beet noodles tossed in a tangy honey and Dijon dressing, complemented perfectly by creamy goat cheese and crunchy pecans. It’s a colorful dish bursting with fresh flavors and textures that will make you fall in love with beets all over again, whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or an elegant side.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple but essential, working together to create that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and nutty. Each one adds its own special touch, ensuring your Roasted Beet Noodles with Goat Cheese and Pecans Recipe dazzles both your palate and your eyes.
- Honey (4 tsp): Adds a gentle sweetness that balances the earthiness of the beets and the acidity of the vinegar.
- Olive oil (4 tsp): Brings richness and helps the dressing coat every strand of beet noodles beautifully.
- Red wine vinegar (4 tsp): Gives a bright, zesty pop that lifts the entire dish.
- Dijon mustard (2 tsp): Adds a subtle kick and depth to the dressing’s flavor profile.
- Shallot, minced (3 tsp): Provides a mild onion flavor that enhances the savory notes.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring out and balance all the dish’s flavors.
- Medium-sized beets (2): The star ingredient, spiralized into noodles for a fun, fresh texture.
- Crumbled goat cheese (1/4 cup): Offers a creamy tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and earthy beets.
- Whole pecans (1/4 cup): Add a satisfying crunch and a toasted nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.
How to Make Roasted Beet Noodles with Goat Cheese and Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This quick preheat step ensures your beet noodles roast just right – tender but with a slight caramelized edge that adds depth to their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
Combine honey, olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, shallots, salt, and pepper in an airtight container. Give it a good shake, or whisk vigorously in a bowl until it emulsifies into a smooth, tangy dressing. Setting it aside in the fridge lets the flavors meld and deepen while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Spiralize the Beets
Trim the ends off your beets and peel them carefully. Using a spiralizer fitted with Blade C, create beautiful, long beet noodles just like you would with zucchini. This is where the magic starts—the vibrant ruby strands are visually stunning and set the scene for a memorable meal.
Step 4: Roast the Beet Noodles
Arrange the spiralized beets on a baking sheet lightly coated with cooking spray, then season with salt and pepper. Roast them in your preheated oven for just 5 minutes. This short roasting time softens the beets while preserving their fresh crunch and bright color.
Step 5: Toss with Dressing
Remove the roasted beet noodles from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. Pour the chilled dressing over the noodles and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every twist and curl is coated with that irresistible tangy glaze.
Step 6: Add Goat Cheese and Pecans
Plate your dressed beet noodles and generously sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and whole pecans on top. The creamy goat cheese melts slightly against the warm beets, while the pecans add a delightful texture contrast. Now, your Roasted Beet Noodles with Goat Cheese and Pecans Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Roasted Beet Noodles with Goat Cheese and Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, try garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for herbaceous brightness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also enhance the flavors and create an irresistible finish.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or grilled salmon, making a light yet elegant meal. If you want something vegetarian, a side of quinoa or a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette complements the earthiness of the beets beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the beet noodles in individual glass bowls or on a rustic wooden board. Layering the goat cheese and pecans artistically or arranging the noodles in a nest shape adds that wow factor perfect for dinner parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though they might not last long), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. The beet noodles will stay fresh for up to two days, but the texture may soften slightly, so plan to enjoy them soon.
Freezing
We do not recommend freezing this dish because the delicate textures of the beet noodles and the creamy goat cheese will not hold up well after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating
If you want to reheat your beet noodles, do so gently in a warm oven or on the stovetop over low heat for just a few minutes. Avoid the microwave to keep that beautiful texture intact. You can add fresh goat cheese and pecans again after reheating to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked beets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked beets, but fresh raw beets spiralized and roasted provide the best texture and flavor contrast. Precooked beets tend to be softer and may result in mushier noodles.
What if I don’t have a spiralizer?
No spiralizer? No problem! You can use a vegetable peeler to create thin beet ribbons or finely julienne the beets with a knife. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I substitute goat cheese for another cheese?
Absolutely! Feta cheese is a great alternative that offers a similar tangy creaminess. Fresh ricotta can also work if you prefer a milder flavor.
Are there any nut-free options?
Yes, if you need a nut-free version, try toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of pecans. They add a lovely crunch without the allergens.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the dish vegan, replace the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it altogether. Use maple syrup instead of honey for the dressing, and you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about this Roasted Beet Noodles with Goat Cheese and Pecans Recipe that makes it a keeper in my kitchen. The colors, textures, and flavors come together so effortlessly, making it a perfect dish to share with friends or enjoy as a nourishing treat for yourself. Give it a try and watch how it transforms the way you think about beets – I promise it’ll become one of your favorites too!
Print
Roasted Beet Noodles with Goat Cheese and Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and healthy dish featuring roasted beet noodles tossed in a tangy honey-mustard dressing, topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy pecans. This quick and flavorful recipe showcases a creative way to enjoy beets with minimal cooking time.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 4 tsp honey
- 4 tsp olive oil
- 4 tsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 3 tsp shallot, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Noodles
- 2 medium-sized beets
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup whole pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for roasting the beet noodles.
- Prepare Dressing: Combine honey, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dijon mustard, minced shallot, salt, and pepper in an airtight container or bowl. Shake or whisk well, then refrigerate until ready to use.
- Spiralize Beets: Peel the beets and cut off the ends. Use a spiralizer equipped with Blade C to create beet noodles just like you would with zucchini noodles.
- Roast Beets: Place the beet noodles on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to slightly soften.
- Toss with Dressing: Remove the roasted beet noodles from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the noodles and mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Serve: Plate the dressed beet noodles and sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and whole pecans. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Blade C on a spiralizer usually means a medium-width noodle; adjust based on your spiralizer’s settings.
- Be careful not to overcook the beets; 5 minutes keeps them slightly crisp and colorful.
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and texture.
- For a vegan version, omit goat cheese or substitute with vegan cheese.
- This recipe is perfect as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish.
