For the LOVE of Beets Appetizers

We created this delicious appetizer not only because these beets are in season and AMAZING, but what other vegetable is more perfect for Valentine’s Day than a beet?

For the Roasted Beets:
4-5 beets washed and green tops removed (save to saute), cut into 2 inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Add beets to an ovenproof dish and toss with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the 400º oven for about 30 minutes or until entirely cooked through.

For the Whipped Feta:
5oz fresh feta cheese roughly crumbled
5oz plain greek yogurt
zest from 1/2 lemon
pinch of salt and pepper

Add all ingredients into a food processor and blend until completely mixed together and creamy. Optional - add in a small amount of the juice from roasting the beets to make it a pink blush color.

For the Sauteed Beet Greens:
Stems and greens from the beets chopped into 1/2 inch pieces
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper
1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice

In a wide pan add the olive oil and begin to heat over medium heat. Add in pepper flakes and let them start to warm. Immediately add the chopped beet greens and stems into the pan and toss with the oil and red pepper flakes. Season with a little salt and pepper. Keep cooking and stirring occasionally until the stems have softened, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the lemon juice. Stir to combine.

To Assemble:
Slice a small baguette horizontally into smaller rounds. Toast in the oven or toaster until lightly browned.
Add a spoonful of whipped feta to each toast. Top withe the greens and add 1 or 2 beets to the top of each toast. Drizzle with a small amount of whipped feta and ENJOY.