Craving a vibrant dish that’s both healthy and easy to prepare? This Raw Beet Carpaccio with Walnuts is a perfect choice, offering a burst of flavor and color. It’s an excellent addition to your collection of Healthy Beet Recipes, proving that nutritious can be incredibly delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beets: Use fresh, firm beets. You can substitute with golden beets for a different color.
- Walnuts: Pecans or almonds make good alternatives if you don’t have walnuts.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill work wonderfully. Chives are also a nice touch.
- Citrus: Lemon juice is essential for brightness. Lime juice can be used in a pinch.
Ingredients:
For the Carpaccio:
- 2 medium beets, scrubbed and peeled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, lightly toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200
- Tools Needed: Mandoline slicer or sharp knife, small bowl, whisk.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Beets
Carefully peel your fresh beets. Use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to cut them into paper-thin rounds. Arrange these beautiful beet slices on a serving platter.
2. Toast the Walnuts
Gently toast your walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn. Once cooled, roughly chop them.
3. Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and emulsified.
4. Assemble Your Carpaccio
Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the thinly sliced beets. Sprinkle the toasted and chopped walnuts and fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful dish.
Variation Ideas:
- Add crumbled goat cheese or dairy-free feta for a creamy texture.
- Include thinly sliced red onion or radish for extra crunch and a spicy kick.
- Try a different dressing with a touch of Dijon mustard or balsamic glaze.
- Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts.
Storage Instructions:
It’s best to enjoy your Raw Beet Carpaccio immediately for the freshest taste and texture. If you have leftovers, store the beet slices and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Combine just before serving to prevent the beets from becoming soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you eat raw beets?
Yes, absolutely! Raw beets are delicious, crunchy, and packed with nutrients.
- What is carpaccio?
Carpaccio refers to a dish of thinly sliced raw meat or fish, but it’s also used for thinly sliced vegetables like beets.
- Do I need a mandoline slicer?
While a mandoline helps achieve uniformly thin slices, a very sharp knife and careful technique can also work.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the beets and dressing separately a day in advance. Assemble right before serving for the best results.
- Are beets good for you?
Yes, beets are a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a great choice for Healthy Beet Recipes.
- How do I prevent beet stains?
Wearing gloves while handling and preparing beets can help prevent your hands from getting stained.