Beets With Orange Sauce
Beets with orange sauce offer a vibrant, sweet-tangy flavor profile, combining tender cooked beets with a citrusy glaze, perfect for a colorful and refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a saucepan.
- Mix the brown sugar and cornstarch together in a small bowl.
- Add the sugar and cornstarch mixture to the melted butter and blend well.
- Stir in the orange juice and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Add salt, pepper, and cooked beets to the sauce.
- Cook until the beets are heated through.
- Sprinkle with grated orange rind before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a tangy twist. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. For a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water. This dish complements well with roasted vegetables or can be served as a unique side in a Mediterranean recipes spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beets with orange sauce warm as a side dish for grilled meats or fish. They also pair nicely with salads or as part of a vegetarian platter. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for added freshness. This dish can also be a vibrant addition to a holiday table alongside Sarah Chase's Scalloped Tomatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover beets with orange sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covered, to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beets With Orange Sauce contains roughly 46 calories, with 0g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned beets for convenience. Just be sure to drain and rinse them to reduce excess salt and then heat them through in the sauce. Fresh beets offer a more vibrant flavor and texture, but canned beets work well in a pinch.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The rest of the ingredients are already plant-based, making it a great choice for a vegan side dish.
What can I serve with beets and orange sauce?
This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins, such as grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside whole grains like quinoa or farro for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with Garbanzo Beans With Cheese for a protein-packed pairing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).