Why You’ll Love Beetroot Pasta Sauce Recipe
This recipe stands out for its stunning color and rich flavor. The earthy sweetness of beetroot pairs perfectly with creamy cheese, creating a balanced sauce that’s both comforting and slightly sophisticated.
It’s also a great way to include more vegetables in your meals without compromising on taste. The sauce comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with different herbs, cheeses, or spice levels.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
2 medium beetroots, peeled and chopped
3 to 4 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 cup feta cheese or crumbled paneer
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice
salt to taste
crushed black pepper to taste
fresh basil or cilantro for garnish
reserved pasta cooking water as needed
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
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While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant.
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Add the chopped beetroots and a pinch of salt. Stir well, then add a small splash of water. Cover and cook until the beetroots are tender. This may take about 12 to 15 minutes.
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Once the beetroots are soft, allow them to cool slightly. Transfer them to a blender along with feta or paneer, lemon juice, pepper, and a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Return the sauce to the pan or pot. Add the cooked pasta and toss well to coat. Adjust the consistency with more reserved pasta water if needed.
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Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as required. Garnish with fresh basil or cilantro and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2 to 3 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 to 25 minutes
Total time: approximately 30 to 35 minutes
Variations
For a vegan version, replace feta or paneer with soaked and blended cashews or a plant-based cheese alternative.
For deeper flavor, roast the beetroots in the oven instead of sautéing them. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness.
Add a spicy twist by mixing in chili flakes or a small green chili while blending.
Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
Top with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir well before serving.
If storing the sauce separately from the pasta, it can also be frozen for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked beetroots?
Yes, pre-cooked beetroots work well and will reduce the cooking time significantly.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce nicely, but spaghetti or linguine also work well.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How do I make the sauce creamier?
Add a bit more cheese or blend in a small amount of cream or cashew paste for extra richness.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, the natural sweetness of beetroot often appeals to children, especially with its bright color.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas make excellent additions for a more filling meal.
Why does my sauce taste too earthy?
Balance the flavor by adding more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to brighten it up.
Can I use another cheese instead of feta?
Ricotta or cream cheese can be used for a milder and creamier flavor.
How can I make the color more vibrant?
Use fresh, deep-red beetroots and avoid overcooking them to maintain their bright color.
Can I serve this sauce cold?
Yes, it can be enjoyed as a pasta salad when chilled, though it is most flavorful when served warm.
Conclusion
Beetroot pasta sauce is a simple yet impressive recipe that turns everyday ingredients into a colorful and flavorful meal. Its creamy texture, balanced taste, and striking appearance make it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. With easy variations and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Beetroot Pasta Sauce
A vibrant and creamy beetroot pasta sauce made with roasted beetroot, garlic, and simple seasonings. This naturally colorful sauce is flavorful, nutritious, and perfect for tossing with your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 medium beetroot, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato puree
- 1/4 cup fresh cream
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon mixed Italian herbs
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated cheese (optional)
- 200 grams cooked pasta
Instructions
- Boil or roast the chopped beetroot until soft and tender. Allow it to cool.
- Blend the cooked beetroot into a smooth puree and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped garlic and onion. Sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Add tomato puree and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the beetroot puree and mix well.
- Add salt, black pepper, Italian herbs, and chili flakes. Cook for 5–7 minutes on low heat.
- Stir in fresh cream and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add boiled pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat evenly.
- Garnish with grated cheese and serve hot.
Notes
- You can roast the beetroot for a deeper, earthy flavor.
- Adjust cream quantity for a richer or lighter sauce.
- Add sautéed vegetables or mushrooms for extra texture.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
