Roasted Beets with Orange Maple Glaze

There’s something magical about the combination of earthy beets, bright citrus, and the rich sweetness of maple syrup. It’s a flavor profile that feels both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion side dish. I’ve always been drawn to recipes that balance simplicity with bold flavors, and this Roasted Beets with Orange Maple Glaze recipe is exactly that. It’s a dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of beets while adding a tangy, caramelized finish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roasted chicken, tossing it into a salad, or enjoying it as a standalone vegetarian dish, it never fails to impress. The process is straightforward, but the result feels gourmet. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce beets to anyone who might be skeptical about their earthy flavor. Trust me, the orange maple glaze is a game-changer!

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Beets: The star of the dish, beets are earthy, sweet, and packed with nutrients. They’re rich in fiber, folate, and antioxidants, making them as healthy as they are delicious. When roasted, their natural sugars caramelize, creating a tender and flavorful base for the glaze.

Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the earthiness of the beets. It’s the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, and it helps create a glossy, flavorful glaze.

Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup brings a deep, rich sweetness to the glaze. It’s a natural complement to the beets and adds a touch of warmth to the dish. Make sure to use the real stuff—no pancake syrup here!

Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil helps roast the beets to perfection, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. It also adds a subtle richness to the glaze.

Salt and Pepper: These pantry staples enhance all the flavors in the dish. A pinch of salt brings out the sweetness of the beets and maple syrup, while a dash of pepper adds a hint of spice.

Fresh Thyme (optional): While optional, fresh thyme adds an herby, aromatic touch that elevates the dish. It pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the glaze and the earthiness of the beets.

Ingredients List

4 medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

How to Make Roasted Beets with Orange Maple Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the beets will roast evenly and develop a beautiful caramelized exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Beets

Peel the beets and cut them into even-sized wedges. This helps them cook uniformly. Place the wedges in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This mixture will coat the beets and create a delicious glaze as they roast.

Step 4: Toss the Beets

Pour the glaze over the beet wedges and toss until they’re evenly coated. Make sure every piece is well-covered for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Roast the Beets

Spread the beets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the beets are tender and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the beets are out of the oven, sprinkle them with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or as part of a larger meal.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Orange Juice: Bottled orange juice won’t give you the same bright, tangy flavor as freshly squeezed.
Cut Even-Sized Wedges: This ensures that all the beets cook at the same rate.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the beets in a single layer to allow for even roasting and caramelization.
Add a Splash of Balsamic Vinegar: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the glaze.
Double the Recipe: These beets make great leftovers! They can be enjoyed cold in salads or reheated as a side dish.

FAQs

Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
While fresh beets are recommended for their texture and flavor, you can use canned beets in a pinch. Just reduce the roasting time since they’re already cooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roast the beets and prepare the glaze ahead of time, then reheat them in the oven before serving.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as a substitute, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.

Are there other herbs I can use instead of thyme?
Rosemary or oregano would work well, but use them sparingly as they have stronger flavors.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes would pair beautifully with the orange maple glaze.

Enjoy making this Roasted Beets with Orange Maple Glaze recipe—it’s a dish that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat!