Description
This Air Fryer Beets recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy tender, flavorful beets with a delightful balsamic garlic dressing. Perfectly roasted in an air fryer for a caramelized exterior and soft inside, these beets make a vibrant side dish or salad addition, showcasing a simple seasoning blend enhanced by a rich, tangy glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
Beets
- 3 medium beets (red, golden, candy cane, or a mix)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Balsamic Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Beets: Give the beets a quick scrub under running water, then chop off the top and root ends. Use a peeler to remove the skin. Slice the beets into small wedges or chunks about 1-inch thick. Wearing gloves is recommended to prevent hand staining.
- Season the Beets: Place the sliced beets in a large mixing bowl. Toss them with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper until well coated.
- Air Fry the Beets: Transfer the seasoned beets into the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer. It’s okay if they touch but avoid overcrowding. Set the air fryer to 400ºF and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until tender, checking with a fork or knife. Halfway through, shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Balsamic Dressing: While the beets cook, heat 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Let it reduce for 2 to 3 minutes until syrupy, stirring carefully to prevent burning. Remove from heat and whisk in the grated garlic clove and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Serve: Once cooked, transfer the beets to a serving plate. Optionally, drizzle with the balsamic garlic dressing and season with extra salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Wear gloves when peeling beets to avoid staining your hands.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Watch the balsamic vinegar closely as it reduces to avoid burning.
- The balsamic dressing is optional but adds a wonderful tang and depth of flavor.
- Use a fork or sharp knife to test beet tenderness before finishing cooking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer beets, roasted beets, balsamic beets, easy beet recipe, healthy side dish, vegetarian side
