Nina:
I love the color and earthy taste of beets, and the sweet goat cheese here is unbeatable.
This vibrant and nutrient-packed dish is a testament to how wholesome ingredients can transform into a showstopping appetizer or light main. Earthy beetroots, aromatic thyme, and creamy goat cheese come together with a touch of caramelized sweetness, while toasted pine nuts add delightful crunch and depth. The result is a plate that balances flavor, texture, and nutrition.
Roasting or boiling beets not only intensifies their natural flavors but also preserves their vitamin and mineral content—especially fiber and Vitamin C. In this recipe, the interplay of sweet, tangy, and nutty notes creates a sophisticated harmony that can intrigue both beet lovers and skeptics alike.
Whether you’re introducing guests to the magic of beets or satisfying longtime enthusiasts, this dish is bound to leave a lasting impression with its refined yet approachable character.
The subtle sweetness of beets and the assertive creaminess of goat cheese call for a wine that can balance and elevate these flavors. Opt for a rosé with expressive aromatics and lively acidity, such as a Lagrein Rosé, which brings freshness and a soft, fruit-forward profile. Alternatively, a Pinot Noir with its bright acidity and delicate red fruit notes can cut through the richness and accentuate the earthy undertones, ensuring a perfectly paired dining experience.
IngredientsTry it with...
Preparation
for 4 servings
Step
1
Of 3
Begin by simmering three medium-sized (about 300 grams in total) fresh red beetroots in well-salted water until tender and fully cooked through.
Once the beets are soft (approximately 1 hour), remove them from the pot and let them cool completely. When cooled, gently peel off their skins and cut the beets into coarse dice. In a medium mixing bowl, toss the diced beets with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, and plenty of fresh thyme leaves to taste. Add a whole peeled garlic clove to the mix and allow the salad to marinate, infusing the beets with aromatic depth.
Step
2
Of 3
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium heat. Add the pine nuts and stir frequently, toasting them until they develop a rich golden-brown color. Be vigilant, as pine nuts can scorch quickly. Once toasted, transfer to a plate and let them cool fully to preserve their crisp texture.
Step
3
Of 3
Place the goat cheese in a medium bowl and use a wooden spoon to stir and soften it. Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed. Divide the cheese into equal portions and roll them into small, uniform rounds with your hands. Generously sprinkle the tops with cane sugar. With a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, crisp crust on each cheese round.
To serve, spoon a helping of beetroot salad onto each plate. Nestle a caramelized goat cheese round on top, then scatter toasted pine nuts over each serving. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for a final touch of herbal fragrance and richness.
Culinary Tip: Fresh thyme lends the brightest flavor, but if unavailable, a pinch of dried thyme can be substituted to taste.
Try it with...
Filippo Bartolotta
...Great Italian Goodies!
Nina Saturday 11th of April 2020
Healthy and gorgeous
I love the color and earthy taste of beets, and the sweet goat cheese here is unbeatable.