Beetroots are most often used in the kitchen to prepare aromatic soups, salads and traditional beetroots. It is rare to prepare creamy, delicate and healthy appetizers from them. It’s a pity, because beetroot – properly seasoned and combined with cream cheese – turns into… aksamitny mus. The snack is perfect as a nutritious breakfast or light dinner. It’s a simple dish, full of nutritional value, and very effective.
Although beetroot is popular in Polish cuisine, not everyone knows how many benefits it brings to the body. It is low-calorie – 100 g of cooked beetroot is approximately 40-45 kcal. At the same time, it provides essential nutrients. Contains vitamin C and B vitamins (especially folic acid) as well minerals (potassium, magnesium, iron and manganese).
One of the most valuable components of beetroot are betalainsi.e. natural dyes responsible for the intense color of the vegetable. Substances have antioxidant properties and support the body in the fight against oxidative stress. They show anti-cancer potential and help strengthen immunity. Regular consumption of beets may have a beneficial effect on the circulatory systemdilating blood vessels and helping lower blood pressure.
Beetroots also support the functioning of the digestive system. The fiber they contain improves intestinal peristalsis and helps keep you feeling full for longer. This is of great importance for people who care about their body weight. The vegetable is also recommended for physically active people – its consumption can improve the body’s efficiency and reduce the feeling of fatigue.
We cannot forget about the influence of beets on iron levels and red blood cell production. Although they do not hold records in terms of the content of this element, they support hematopoietic processes, especially in combination with a diet rich in vitamin C.
Despite its numerous benefits, beets are not suitable for everyone. They contain oxalates, so people with kidney stones should consume them in moderation. Due to natural sugars, people with insulin resistance or diabetes should control portions, especially in the case of cooked beets, which have a higher glycemic index than raw beets. However, it is worth emphasizing that as part of a varied diet, beets are a valuable and safe element of the daily menu. They provide many ingredients that support the heart, immunity and metabolism, and at the same time they are cheap and available all year round.
Creamy mousse is a great alternative to classic sandwich spreads. In Poland, it is more often prepared, but this combination of boiled beetroot with mascarpone and Greek yogurt is still not very popular. It is an option for a healthy breakfast, a light dinner, and an elegant party appetizer. The delicacy of the cheese offsets the savory character of the vegetables and spices.
Ingredients:
- 2 cooked beets (medium soft),
- a spoon of mascarpone,
- a spoonful of Greek yogurt,
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder,
- a tablespoon of vinegar (e.g. apple or wine),
- parsley (a little, just to taste),
- salt and pepper to taste.
How to do it:
1. Boil the beets until they are soft but not overcooked. Cut into smaller pieces. Transfer to a blender.
2. Add mascarpone, Greek yogurt, garlic, vinegar and some parsley.
3. Blend until smooth and uniform.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Mix briefly to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Divide the mousse into small bowls or glasses. Garnish with fresh parsley or pieces of soft beetroot.
6. Before serving, put in the fridge for about 2-3 hours.
What to serve cooked beetroot and mascarpone mousse with? It’s perfect for breakfast with whole grain bread, crusty baguette or croutons. You can spread it on toast and to add or a slice of smoked salmon. All right goes well with arugula, sprouts and pumpkin seeds. It’s worth serving it for dinner as a dip for raw vegetables – carrots, cucumbers, celery or peppers. If you plan to serve it to guests at a party, it will be a perfect addition to grilled vegetables, baked chicken or as a creamy base for savory pancakes and tortillas.
Cooked beetroot and mascarpone mousse is a simple way to smuggle a valuable vegetable into your diet in a new, interesting form. It is light, nutritious and full of health-promoting ingredients. It will be useful both for an everyday meal and for an elegant party. Try it and you will definitely include it in your diet permanently.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl, imprimerie-deval.fr
