Nutrient-Rich Beet and Salmon Bowl: A Seasonal Delight

Have you ever wondered why those vibrant beets at your local market still have their greens attached? Well, wonder no more! The answer is simple: you can eat those greens, and they're incredibly nutrient-rich, packed with antioxidants and phytonutrients. So, next time you spot beets with their greens, snatch them up and embark on a culinary adventure that's as delicious as it is nutritious.

When to Enjoy Fresh Beets:

Before we dive into this delightful recipe, let's talk timing. Beets are at their prime during late spring through early fall, with a peak season spanning from June to October in many regions. To savor the freshest beets, keep an eye out for them during these months. And if you can't find them at your local supermarket, don't despair—your nearby farmers' market might just be the perfect place to discover beets with their nutritious greens still attached.

Ingredients:

  • Salmon (2 fillets) – Protein, Omega-3

  • Beets (4 small beets) – Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants

  • Beet greens (from the 4 beets) – Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants

  • Red onions (1/2 onion) – Fiber, Vitamins, Minerals

  • Cottage Cheese (1 cup) – Protein

  • Pine Nuts (2 tablespoons) – Healthy Fats, Protein

  • Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons) – Healthy Fats

  • Salt & Pepper

Instructions:

  1. Roast the Beets: Start by roasting the beets for approximately 1 hour in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven. Leave the skins on and wrap them in tin foil; it makes peeling a breeze.

  2. Sautee Beet Greens and Red Onions: While the beets are roasting, sauté the beet greens and red onions in a pan with a squeeze of lemon for that extra tangy kick.

  3. Prepare the Salmon: Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper on the salmon. When there are 15 minutes left on the beet roasting timer, place the salmon in the oven, also wrapped in tin foil.

  4. Assemble the Bowl: Once the beets and salmon are ready, let the beets cool a bit, then use a spoon to effortlessly peel them—the skins should rub away easily. Now, cut the beets into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.

  5. Add the Goodness: To the bowl, add the sautéed beet greens and red onions. Then, gently incorporate cottage cheese for creaminess and pine nuts for that satisfying crunch.

  6. Finishing Touch: Drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil over the bowl, and it's ready to be mixed and enjoyed.

This nutrient-rich beet and salmon bowl is a testament to the beauty of seasonal ingredients and their incredible flavors. With earthy, tangy notes perfectly balanced with creaminess and crunch, it's a celebration of freshness and healthiness. Next time you spot those beets with their greens at the market, remember this delightful recipe and embark on a culinary journey that your taste buds and body will thank you for. Enjoy!