colorful beets

We partnered with The Packer to showcase Beets and some tips & tricks you may not know about them.

Seasonality:

  • Beets are available year-round.

Health Benefits of Beets:

  • Beets are high in immune-boosting Vitamin C, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium and manganese.
  • Beets also contain the B vitamin folate.

How to Select Beets:

  • Select small to medium beets with firm, smooth skin and no soft spots or punctures.
  • Beets with stems and leaves still attached are best since the greens will wilt long before the root. Looks for greens that aren’t wilted or mushy.

How to Store Beets:

  • Store beets in the refrigerator with tops loose in an unsealed plastic bag. If kept from moisture, beets can last for several weeks or up to a couple of months.
  • If your beets have stems attached, wrap them loosely in a damp paper towel and keep them in the crisper. Greens will keep 3-4 days.

How to Prepare Beets:

  • Peel beets with a veggie peeler prior to cooking or roast the beets gently until they’re tender, then rub the skins off with a paper towel.

Fun Facts About Beets:

  • Since the 16th century, beet juice has been used as a natural red dye. It was even used as a hair dye.
  • Beets were used in ancient Rome for medicinal purposes.