If you’re craving a vibrant, healthy dish that feels both indulgent and fresh, the Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender spiralized beet noodles tossed with aromatic garlic and sweet red onions, all coated in tangy balsamic vinegar and a splash of vegetable broth for just the right amount of sauciness. Topped with creamy goat cheese and crunchy toasted nuts, this dish is as visually stunning as it is flavorful, making it a perfect centerpiece for a nutritious meal that excites your palate and delights your eyes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe plays a crucial role, bringing simplicity and essential flavors that blend to create a balanced and colorful dish. The fresh beets provide earthiness and bold color, while the garlic and onions add aromatic depth, making every bite a delicious experience.
- 2 large beets (peeled and spiralized): The star ingredient that delivers vibrant color and naturally sweet, earthy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and onion to perfection.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a fragrant punch that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced): Adds slight sweetness and a tender texture contrast.
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water: Keeps the noodles moist and helps create a light, glossy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Brings acidity and depth, perfectly balancing the sweetness of beets.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and slight bite.
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional): Offers creamy tanginess and a rich finish.
- 2 tablespoons toasted walnuts or pine nuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by peeling the beets and using a spiralizer to create those beautiful beet noodles that will form the heart of the dish. This step not only gives the pasta its unique texture but also showcases the gorgeous deep red hue that’s so inviting.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add minced garlic and thinly sliced red onion. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their lovely fragrance – this builds a flavorful foundation for the beet noodles later.
Step 3: Cook the Beet Noodles
Now add the spiralized beets to the skillet, tossing gently for 5 to 7 minutes. You want them tender but still with a bite, so keep an eye on them as they cook. The natural sweetness will become more pronounced here.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Seasoning
Pour in the vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar, sprinkling salt and pepper over the noodles. Stir everything, letting the mixture cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly, coating each noodle in a glossy, flavorful glaze.
Step 5: Finish with Toppings
Remove the pan from heat and plate your pasta. Top generously with crumbled goat cheese or feta, sprinkle toasted walnuts or pine nuts, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Classic garnishes like crumbled goat cheese, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs each elevate the dish by adding creamy, crunchy, and fresh herbal layers. These garnishes transform simple beet noodles into a gourmet delight.
Side Dishes
This Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with light salads—think mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette—or crusty artisan bread. For heartier options, roasted vegetables or grilled chicken work wonderfully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your beet noodles in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or on elegant white plates to make the colors pop. For brunch or gatherings, consider layering the pasta in clear glass jars for a stunning presentation that shows off the vibrant layers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beet noodles maintain their texture well, but the cheese and nuts are best added fresh before serving.
Freezing
While freezing beet noodles is possible, it’s best to freeze the cooked beet noodles separately without toppings to preserve texture. When reheated, they won’t be quite as crisp but will still be delicious.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth to refresh the noodles. Avoid overcooking to keep them from becoming too soft or mushy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Absolutely! While balsamic vinegar offers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, you can experiment with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for slightly different tangy profiles.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, simply omit the goat cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative, and the dish remains flavorful and satisfying while fully vegan.
What if I don’t have a spiralizer?
No worries! You can slice the beets thinly with a mandoline or a sharp knife to create noodle-like strips that work just as well.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Chickpeas, lentils, or grilled tofu make excellent protein additions that complement the earthy beet noodles and keep the meal well-rounded.
Are golden beets a good substitute?
Golden beets are a fantastic alternative if you prefer a milder flavor and less staining on your hands and clothes. They will give your Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe a sunny yellow color and slightly sweeter taste.
Final Thoughts
This Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe is a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes that’s sure to brighten your meal times and impress your friends. With its beautiful color, balanced flavors, and easy preparation, it’s a recipe worth trying again and again. Don’t hesitate to bring a little sparkle to your dinner table with this vibrant and nourishing favorite.
Print
Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegetarian, Clean Eating
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
Beet Noodle Pasta is a vibrant, healthy dish featuring spiralized beets sautéed with garlic and red onion, tossed in balsamic vinegar and vegetable broth, then topped with creamy goat cheese or feta and crunchy toasted nuts. Perfect as a main course or side dish, this colorful recipe is quick to prepare and offers a delightful, nutritious alternative to traditional pasta.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large beets (peeled and spiralized)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced)
Liquids & Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
- 2 tablespoons toasted walnuts or pine nuts
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and thinly sliced red onion, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Cook the beet noodles: Add the spiralized beet noodles to the skillet and cook, tossing occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until the noodles are just tender but still slightly firm to maintain a pleasant texture.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth and balsamic vinegar, then season the dish with salt and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 2–3 minutes so that the liquid slightly reduces and coats the noodles uniformly.
- Plate and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the beet noodles to serving plates. Top each serving with crumbled goat cheese or feta, toasted walnuts or pine nuts, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- To make this dish vegan, omit the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
- For added protein, incorporate chickpeas or lentils into the dish.
- Golden beets can be used instead of red beets for a milder flavor and to avoid staining.
