If you are looking to brighten up your dinner table with a colorful, healthy, and utterly delicious dish, then this Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender, vibrant beet noodles tossed in fragrant garlic olive oil, kissed by a splash of lemon juice, and finished off with crunchy toasted nuts and creamy goat cheese. This recipe beautifully combines simple ingredients to create something that feels gourmet but comes together in less than 20 minutes. It’s perfect for anyone craving a veggie-packed meal that’s as tasty as it is visually stunning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is all it takes to bring the magic of the Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe to life. Each element plays an important role, balancing flavors, adding textures, or bringing that signature jewel-like color.
- 2 medium beets, peeled and spiralized: The star of the dish, their natural sweetness and vibrant hue give this pasta its gorgeous look and earthy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps infuse the garlic’s aroma throughout the beet noodles.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant, savory foundation that lifts the whole dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the beet’s natural sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick, keeping the flavor profile interesting.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Offers bright acidity, which cuts through the richness and complements the beets perfectly.
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional): Creamy and slightly tangy, this topping elevates the texture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pine nuts: Introduces a satisfying crunch and nutty depth.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil: Fresh herbs add a pop of green and freshness to brighten every bite.
- Grated Parmesan (optional): Sprinkle if you want an extra layer of savory richness without the goat cheese.
How to Make Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Heat
Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a spacious skillet. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until wonderfully fragrant. This step is crucial because it sets the savory aroma that will infuse the beets later.
Step 2: Cook the Beet Noodles
Next, add your spiralized beet noodles straight to the skillet. Sauté them gently for 4 to 6 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the noodles tender enough to enjoy but still with a little crispness—that perfect bite texture that makes this Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe so delightful.
Step 3: Season and Finish
Sprinkle the salt and black pepper evenly and drizzle the lemon juice over the noodles. Toss everything together to make sure the flavors marry beautifully. Right at the end, take your skillet off the heat and swiftly add the crumbled goat cheese or feta, toasted nuts, and chopped fresh herbs on top for a vibrant, fresh finish.
How to Serve Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dish is where you can have a lot of fun. The creamy goat cheese or feta melts slightly over the warm noodles, creating pockets of tangy richness. Toasted walnuts or pine nuts add a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully. Fresh parsley or basil not only colors your plate but also adds a refreshing herbal lift. If you prefer, a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan can be added for an extra savory touch.
Side Dishes
Beet Noodle Pasta works wonderfully as either a main dish or a side. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a light meal or serve alongside roasted chicken or fish for a heartier dinner. It also complements grain bowls or can be tucked into wraps as a vibrant veggie boost.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your beet pasta in deep bowls or on flat plates arranged in a nest shape to show off the spirals. For a modern touch, try layering it in glass jars alternating with dollops of goat cheese and nuts for a striking presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top will wow guests and bring an extra dash of elegance to your Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because beet noodles are delicate, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the cheese and nuts separate until serving to maintain their texture. Leftovers can typically be enjoyed within 2 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Freezing
Freezing beet noodles isn’t highly recommended as they may turn mushy upon thawing due to their high water content. Instead, consider freezing any straight beet pulp or using frozen beets portioned for this recipe, and spiralizing fresh when ready to cook.
Reheating
Gently reheat your beet noodle pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil or lemon juice. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the noodles soggy. Adding fresh herbs after reheating brings back brightness that might fade otherwise.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese if I don’t have goat cheese or feta?
Absolutely! While goat cheese and feta provide a perfect tang, you can substitute with ricotta, cream cheese, or even a mild mozzarella. Each will bring a different creaminess, so choose based on your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to peel the beets before spiralizing?
Peeling is recommended because beet skins can be a bit tough and earthy in flavor. Plus, peeling helps the noodles achieve a smooth texture and vibrant color that’s appealing both to the eye and on the palate.
How long can I keep the Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe leftovers?
Leftovers stored properly in the fridge will stay good for up to 2 days. It tastes best fresh, so try to enjoy it soon after cooking to experience those crisp textures and fresh flavors.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply skip the cheese toppings or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can still enjoy the full flavor and texture contrasts from the toasted nuts, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.
Do beet noodles stain anything?
They sure can! Beets have vibrant natural pigments that can stain hands, countertops, and clothing. Wearing gloves while peeling and spiralizing helps, as does working carefully on stain-resistant surfaces.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe that’s simple, wholesome, and bursting with flavor and color. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual get-together, this recipe will not only satisfy but also inspire you to keep exploring veggie noodles in your kitchen. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta alternative!
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Beet Noodle Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant Beet Noodle Pasta offers a healthy and colorful twist on traditional pasta dishes by using spiralized beets as noodles. Lightly sautéed with garlic and olive oil, then finished with fresh herbs, crumbled goat cheese or feta, and toasted nuts, this dish is perfect as a wholesome main or a flavorful side. It combines Mediterranean-inspired flavors with a nutritious, low-carb alternative to pasta, making it ideal for vegetarian and gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
Beet Noodles
- 2 medium beets, peeled and spiralized into noodles
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Toppings
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
- Grated Parmesan (optional, if not using goat cheese)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and garlic: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook the beet noodles: Add the spiralized beet noodles to the skillet. Sauté them for 4 to 6 minutes, tossing occasionally, until they become just tender but still retain a slight crispness.
- Season the noodles: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and lemon juice over the beet noodles. Toss well to evenly coat all the noodles with the seasoning and juice.
- Add toppings and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Top the beet noodles with crumbled goat cheese or feta, toasted walnuts or pine nuts, and fresh chopped parsley or basil. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for additional richness before serving warm.
Notes
- Use golden beets for a sweeter and milder flavor profile.
- Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
- Toss beet noodles with cooked pasta to bulk up the dish and extend servings.
- Beets can stain surfaces and hands; consider wearing gloves during spiralizing for easier cleanup.
