Ingredient spotlight: we've got the beet

Bright, earthy beets are fall’s hidden nutritional superstar. As a side dish or a dessert, these ruby-red root vegetables are packed with nutrients that support your smile, vision, and overall health! Just a few of the standout benefits include:

Healthy highlights:

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    Fiber lowers your risk for heart disease and prevents dry mouth.

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    Antioxidants reduce inflammation and your risk for gum disease, high blood pressure, and Type 2 diabetes.

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    Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for strong, healthy eyes.

Mouth-friendly recipes:

Dark chocolate beet brownies

Chewy on the edges and gooey in the center, these delicious and nutritious brownies are ready to support your smile and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium beets, boiled and peeled
  • 2 sticks unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces dark chocolate chips
  • 1¼ cups white whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 4 eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup golden brown sugar
  • Parchment paper
  • Sea salt (to garnish)

Directions:

  1. Peel the beets, cut them into quarters, and blend until pureed.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350° F and line a brownie pan with parchment paper.
  3. In a saucepan, melt the butter and chocolate over low heat and stir until smooth. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  5. Using a stand mixer, gently mix the eggs on low for about 30 seconds.
  6. Add the vanilla and brown sugar, then mix on mediumhigh for 2 minutes.
  7. Reduce speed to low. Add the beet puree, then slowly add the chocolate mixture until combined.
  8. Add the flour mixture and mix just until combined.
  9. Pour batter into the prepared brownie pan and smooth top with a rubber spatula.
  10. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes, garnish with sea salt, then cut and serve.

Rosemary roasted beets and carrots

With vitamin C and fiber, these roasted beets and carrots are a tasty way to support your oral, vision, and digestive health.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium beets
  • 4 large carrots
  • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • Optional: Goat cheese

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 450° F.
  2. Cut carrots in half, then into 2-inch pieces.
  3. Peel the beets and cut into quarters or cubes.
  4. In a bowl or on a rimmed baking sheet, toss the beets and carrots with the vinegar, oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  5. Transfer to a pan and roast vegetables for about 35 minutes, tossing once, until tender.
  6. Garnish vegetables with goat cheese or fresh rosemary sprigs and serve.

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