Yes, you can absolutely eat beet greens! The entire beetroot plant, from its vibrant purple roots to its leafy greens and stems, is completely edible. Often discarded, beet greens are a surprisingly delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Beet greens are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and iron. They offer a variety of health benefits and are a great source of fiber.
Culinary Versatility
Beet greens can be prepared in numerous ways:
- Raw: Add them to salads for a peppery kick.
- Cooked: Sauté them with garlic, add them to stir-fries, or braise them like other leafy greens. They can also be steamed or boiled.
- Smoothies: The stems can be blended into smoothies, though a high-powered blender is recommended to avoid pulpy textures. Straining might be necessary for less powerful blenders.
Many recipes utilize beet greens, showcasing their versatility in various dishes. Sites like Love and Lemons offer detailed recipes for incorporating beet greens into your meals. Epicurious provides fifteen different ways to use beet greens, highlighting their adaptability in cooking.
Several sources confirm the edibility of beet greens, emphasizing their delicious flavor and nutritional value. One source states, "The beetroot plant is delicious and completely edible - from its purple roots to the green leaves and stems." Another source notes that beet greens are "scrumptiously sweet, silky and tender."
