Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese with Honey Drizzle

Roasted beets are a classic fall dish. The natural sweetness of the beets is enhanced by roasting, and the goat cheese and honey add a touch of richness and sweetness. This dish is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or appetizer.

In the annals of culinary history, the roasted beet holds a place of humble distinction. Once relegated to the realm of borscht and pickled eggs, this unassuming root vegetable has emerged as a culinary star in its own right. Its transformation from earthy afterthought to culinary darling can be traced back to the early 20th century, when French chefs began to experiment with roasting beets as a way to enhance their natural sweetness. The results were nothing short of revelatory: the beets' earthy notes were transformed into a symphony of caramelized flavors, while their texture became tender and yielding. The addition of goat cheese and honey to this roasted beet recipe adds a touch of richness and sweetness that elevates the dish to new heights.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound beets, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Toss beets with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread beets on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Top beets with goat cheese and honey.
6. Serve warm.

Why It Works

• Roasting the beets intensifies their natural sweetness and caramelizes their edges.
• The goat cheese adds a touch of richness and creaminess to the dish.
• The honey adds a touch of sweetness and helps to balance out the acidity of the beets.