Prepare to transform the humble beet into a smoky, tangy masterpiece that will revolutionize your grilling game! This Grilled Beets in Rosemary Vinegar recipe is not just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion that will make even the most vegetable-skeptical diners come back for seconds. With a perfect balance of caramelized exterior, tender interior, and a zesty rosemary vinegar finish, these beets are about to become the unexpected star of your next meal.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets
- 1/4 cup rosemary vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the beets thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris. Trim off the beet tops and root ends, leaving about 1/2 inch of stem intact to prevent bleeding during cooking.
- Place the whole beets in a pot of boiling salted water. Parboil for 10-12 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. This helps reduce grilling time and ensures even cooking.
- Remove beets from boiling water and immediately place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, gently peel the skin using a paper towel or the back of a knife.
- Cut the beets into 1/2-inch thick wedges or rounds, ensuring they are uniform in size for even grilling.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Toss the beet pieces in olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Place the beet pieces directly on the grill grates. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, rotating to create beautiful char marks and develop a caramelized exterior.
- Remove the grilled beets from the heat and immediately drizzle with rosemary vinegar while still hot. The heat will help the beets absorb the vinegar's flavor.
- Let the beets rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Transfer to a serving platter.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or chopped herbs for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve warm as a side dish or atop a salad, enjoying the smoky, tangy, and earthy flavors of the grilled beets.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beets: Select firm, smooth beets with vibrant colors and no soft spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Parboiling is Key: The initial boiling step is crucial – it reduces grilling time and ensures even cooking throughout the beet.
- Grill Temperature Matters: Maintain a medium-high heat (around 400°F) to achieve those beautiful char marks without burning.
- Oil and Season Generously: Coat the beets evenly with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
- Watch the Grill Time: 4-5 minutes per side is the sweet spot for achieving a caramelized exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
- Vinegar Trick: Drizzle the rosemary vinegar while the beets are still hot to maximize flavor absorption.
- Serving Suggestions: These grilled beets are versatile – serve as a side dish, on top of salads, or as part of a vibrant vegetable platter.Pro Chef Tip: If you don't have a grill, you can achieve similar results using a grill pan or roasting in a hot oven at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 123kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
