Harvard Beets (Lo-Cal)
Harvard Beets offer a tangy, sweet glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of beets, making it a vibrant side dish perfect for health-conscious and flavor-seeking diners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the cooked or canned beets.
- Cook until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a dash of lemon juice to brighten the dish. You can substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia for a low-calorie option. If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly. Ensure that the beets are well-drained if using canned to avoid excess liquid in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Harvard Beets can be served warm as a side dish to complement roasted meats or grilled vegetables. They pair beautifully with Sweet Summer Peas for a vibrant plate. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a simple green salad or alongside your favorite protein. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harvard Beets (Lo-Cal) contains roughly 937 calories, with 1g protein, 224g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh beets instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh beets. Simply peel, cook, and slice them before adding to the saucepan. Boil or roast them until tender, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on their size.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add a bit of water or additional vinegar to reach your desired consistency. Stir continuously to ensure the ingredients blend well. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Are there any variations I can try?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. For a tangy twist, mix in some grated apple or a splash of orange juice. These variations can enhance the flavors and make the dish even more interesting.
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).