Microwave Harvard Beets
A quick and tangy side dish featuring sweet beets in a flavorful vinegar sauce, perfect for adding vibrant color and taste to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the beets, reserving the liquid.
- Pour the beet liquid into a 1-cup glass measure and add water to make 1 cup of liquid.
- In a 1-quart microproof casserole or bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and vinegar.
- Stir in the beet liquid mixture.
- Cook uncovered on High (maximum power) for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
- Add the beets and stir lightly.
- Cover and cook on High (maximum power) for about 3 minutes, or until the beets are hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter dish, you can increase the sugar to 1/3 cup. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with cold water. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for the white vinegar for a different flavor profile. Fresh beets can be used, but cooking times may vary. Be sure to stir the sauce well to avoid lumps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Microwave Harvard Beets warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. They pair beautifully with Cole Slaw(Dietetic) for a refreshing contrast. This dish also complements roasted meats and can be served alongside a Green Bean Medley for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent the beets from becoming mushy. These reheated leftovers can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to salads.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Harvard Beets contains roughly 116 calories, with 1g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1773mg per serving (77% 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 fresh beets instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh beets. Just peel and slice them, then steam or boil until tender before adding them to the sauce. Cooking times will vary based on the size of the beet pieces, so check for doneness with a fork.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. The ingredients are all plant-based, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet.
How can I adjust the flavor if it's too tart?
If the dish turns out too tart, you can balance the acidity by adding a bit more sugar, starting with 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired taste. Alternatively, adding a pinch of salt can also help mellow the tartness.
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).