There’s something truly enchanting about the vibrant color of beets coming out of the oven, their natural sweetness intensified and caramelized. Picture this: after a long day filled with fast food runs and dull meals, I found myself searching for a way to nourish my body and excite my palate. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of roasted beet fries—a dish that magically transforms humble root vegetables into crispy, flavorful bites.
The combination of harissa spice and Parmesan cheese takes these fries to a whole new level, ensuring they’re not just a healthy alternative but a crowd-pleaser too. Whether you’re looking for a unique side dish to impress your friends or simply want to indulge in something comforting yet nutritious, these roasted beet fries are here to save the day. Plus, with only a few ingredients and a quick prep time, you’ll be savoring this colorful delight in just 30 minutes. So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring some fun back to your table!
Why are Roasted Beet Fries a Game Changer?
Crispy Texture: These roasted beet fries achieve the perfect crunch while maintaining a tender center—just like your favorite fast-food fries!
Bold Flavor: The harissa spice adds a delightful kick, perfectly balancing the earthy sweetness of the beets.
Healthier Choice: With just 60 calories per serving, indulge without the guilt!
Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re an easy addition to your busy weeknight meals.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve them as an appetizer or side, and watch your family and friends fall in love!
For more delicious vegetable side dishes, be sure to check out my vegetable recipes collection.
Roasted Beet Fries Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these delicious roasted beet fries.
For the Fries
- 2 large red or golden beets – Choose beets for their natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps achieve that crispy texture we all love.
- 1 teaspoon harissa spice – For a bold flavor kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the beets.
- ¼ teaspoon cumin – Adds warm, earthy notes to your fries.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Optional Garnish
- Parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh touch and lovely color on top.
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan, grated – Sprinkled on top for a savory finish that elevates your roasted beet fries!
How to Make Roasted Beet Fries
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Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Start by lining a baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
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Peel and slice the beets, trimming off both ends. Cut them into ¼ inch thick slices, giving them the classic fry shape that will become irresistibly crispy.
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Arrange the beet slices on the lined baking pan. Drizzle them with olive oil, then toss gently with your hands to ensure each slice is evenly coated. Sprinkle harissa spice, cumin, and a dash of salt and pepper to amplify those flavors.
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Roast at 400 degrees F for 15-25 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the slices for even cooking. They’re done when they’re soft and lightly roasted with a bit of caramelization on the edges.
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Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fries as soon as they come out of the oven. This will melt slightly from the heat, creating a deliciously savory topping. Serve right away, perhaps with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, tasty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Roasted Beet Fries Variations
Customize your roasted beet fries to match your favorite flavors and dietary needs!
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Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute half of the beets with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor profile and extra crunch.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the spice blend for an extra kick of heat.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme with the beets before roasting for a fragrant twist that elevates flavor.
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Vegan Delight: Swap the Parmesan cheese with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
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Honey Glaze: Drizzle a bit of honey over the fries after roasting to add a luscious sweetness that complements the earthy beets.
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Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle crushed almonds or walnuts on top before serving to give a delightful crunch to every bite.
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Zesty Lemon: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice after baking for a bright, tangy contrast to the sweet beets.
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Mediterranean Vibes: Replace harissa with za’atar spice to create a Mediterranean-inspired flavor that will transport you to a sun-soaked patio!
Expert Tips for Roasted Beet Fries
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Even Thickness: Ensure your beet slices are uniform at ¼ inch for consistent cooking. Thicker pieces may take longer and be less crispy.
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Dry Surface: Pat beets dry after peeling to remove moisture. A dry surface helps achieve that coveted crispy texture in your roasted beet fries.
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Flavor Boost: Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before roasting for added depth and a unique twist to your beet fries.
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Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on your fries as they roast. It’s easy to overcook them; you want them soft with a hint of crispness to avoid burning.
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Parmesan Timing: Add the grated Parmesan immediately after taking them out of the oven to ensure it melts perfectly, creating a delicious layer on your fries.
What to Serve with Roasted Beet Fries?
Imagine sitting down to a vibrant, colorful meal that not only looks good but tastes even better.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: A rich, smooth dip that perfectly balances the fries’ bold flavors and adds a creamy texture.
- Garlic Aioli: This savory sauce elevates the beet fries with a garlicky punch, making each bite more indulgent and irresistible.
- Quinoa Salad: Tossed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this light side keeps the meal nutritious and refreshing.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken complements the earthy, sweet flavors of the beet fries, making for a hearty meal.
- Herbed Yogurt Sauce: Its tartness and freshness contrast beautifully with the fries, creating a delightful flavor experience with each bite.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter crunch and caramelized edges marry well with the sweet beet fries, bringing balance to your plate.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: The fizzy refreshment and zesty citrus cleanse your palate, enhancing the flavors of your beet fries.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a creamy mousse that adds a touch of richness to end your meal on a sweet note.
- Apple Cider: Mulled or cold, this drink connects the sweetness of beets with a hint of spice, making it a cozy pairing for dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Roasted Beet Fries
• Room Temperature: Serve your roasted beet fries immediately for the best flavor and texture. They lose their crispness if left out for more than an hour.
• Fridge: Store any leftover roasted beet fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the beet fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight bag after freezing for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy again, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their crispy goodness, making your roasted beet fries just as delightful as the first time!
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Beet Fries are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their bold flavors even on your busiest days! You can peel and slice the beets up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, simply drain the beets, toss them with olive oil and spices, and roast as directed. For a quick dinner option, you could even roast the fries and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy texture, and sprinkle with Parmesan just before serving for that amazing flavor boost. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of these delightful fries!
Roasted Beet Fries Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best beets for roasted beet fries?
When selecting beets, look for firm and smooth skin without any dark spots or blemishes. The smaller the beets, the sweeter they tend to be. Ideally, choose medium to large-sized beets that are similar in size for even cooking.
How can I store leftover roasted beet fries?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven is ideal to regain their crispiness. Simply preheat your oven to 375°F and place the fries on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze roasted beet fries?
Yes, you can! For freezing, spread the cooked beet fries in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Freeze them for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.
What are some dietary considerations for roasted beet fries?
These roasted beet fries are naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. However, if you’re allergic to beets or have a sensitivity, it’s best to avoid this recipe altogether.
What if my beet fries aren’t crispy?
If your roasted beet fries turned out soft instead of crispy, check the thickness of the slices—they should be uniform at ¼ inch. Also, make sure to spread them out on the baking sheet; overcrowding can cause steaming, which affects crispiness. Next time, consider patting the beet slices dry before adding oil and seasonings.
Crispy Roasted Beet Fries That Outshine Fast Food Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Start by lining a baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Peel and slice the beets, trimming off both ends. Cut them into ¼ inch thick slices, giving them the classic fry shape that will become irresistibly crispy.
- Arrange the beet slices on the lined baking pan. Drizzle them with olive oil, then toss gently with your hands to ensure each slice is evenly coated. Sprinkle harissa spice, cumin, and a dash of salt and pepper to amplify those flavors.
- Roast at 400 degrees F for 15-25 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the slices for even cooking. They're done when they're soft and lightly roasted with a bit of caramelization on the edges.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fries as soon as they come out of the oven. This will melt slightly from the heat, creating a deliciously savory topping. Serve right away, perhaps with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!