Monday, October 1, 2012

Beat it with Beets!






Beets!  They are so good for you. I don't mean the ones you buy in cans or those picked beets in jars.  Most of those are artificially colored and loaded with preservatives and sugar.  I am talking about fresh beets. Fresh beets are naturally sweet and they are at their peak right now!


Why should you eat beets?  Aside from the fact they contain Betacyanin to help fight cancer, beets are also rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants.  They are loaded with Vitamin C. They are also rich in B-Complex,  iron, manganese, copper, magnesium and potassium.  Beets are the perfect food for weight loss and can help satisfy sweet cravings.  One cup of beets is approximately 45 calories with virtually no fat.

Don't forget the beet greens! Never, ever discard them. Beet greens are an excellent source of carotenoids, flavonoid anti-oxidants, and vitamin A. The greens contain even more nutrients than the actual roots.  A serving of beets and side dish of lightly steamed or sauteed beet greens adds a power- packed punch to any meal!

You might not think you like beets and I don't blame you.  My mother always served canned or pickled beets when I was growing up. YUCK!  It wasn't until I tried fresh, roasted beets that I feel head over heels in love.

Here's how to make roasted beets. Ridiculously Easy Roasted Beets.  This is recipe so easy and it just might change your attitude toward beets.