Simple Steamed Beets with Lemon & Dill
This recipe for Simple Steamed Beets with Lemon & Dill offers a vibrant, healthy side dish that highlights the natural sweetness of beets. Steaming ensures a tender texture, while a bright, herbaceous dressing elevates their earthy flavor with minimal effort.
For 4 servings
Wash the beetroots thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off the tops and root ends. Carefully peel the beets using a vegetable peeler.
Cut each peeled beetroot into uniform 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) dice. This ensures even cooking.
Place a steamer basket in a large pot with about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water, ensuring the water does not touch the bottom of the basket. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Add the diced beets to the steamer basket, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and reduce heat to medium. Steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the beets are fork-tender (a fork should slide in easily).
While the beets are steaming, finely chop the fresh dill. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, the juice of half a lemon (or more, to taste), chopped fresh dill, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Once the beets are tender, carefully remove them from the steamer and transfer them to a medium serving bowl.
Pour the lemon-dill dressing over the warm beets. Toss gently to ensure all the beets are evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to your preference. Serve immediately as a warm side dish, or chill and serve cold.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Stain Prevention**: Beets can stain! Wear gloves when peeling and dicing, and use a cutting board that won't easily stain or cover it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- 2**Don't Overcook**: Overcooked beets become mushy and lose their vibrant color. Check for doneness with a fork; it should slide in easily but the beet should still hold its shape.
- 3**Steam vs. Boil**: Steaming is preferred over boiling as it retains more nutrients and flavor. If you don't have a steamer, you can improvise with a heat-proof colander or metal trivet inside a pot.
- 4**Batch Prep**: Cook a larger batch of steamed beets and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They make a great addition to salads or grain bowls throughout the week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Replace dill with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, mint, or a combination for a different aromatic profile.
Citrus BoostCitrus Boost
Instead of lemon, try lime juice or orange zest for a sweeter, brighter note. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also add depth and a touch of sweetness.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Add toasted walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for a delightful textural contrast and added richness. Feta cheese crumbles also pair wonderfully.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Nutrient Powerhouse
Beets are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, manganese, potassium, iron, and Vitamin C, supporting overall health and energy.
Supports Heart Health
The natural nitrates in beets are converted to nitric oxide in the body, which helps relax and dilate blood vessels, potentially lowering blood pressure and improving circulation.
Potent Antioxidants
Beets contain betalains, powerful antioxidants that give them their vibrant color and help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, contributing to disease prevention.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, steamed beets can be cooked up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Dress them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
