Oven-roasted beets and onions is a rustic, earthy side dish that delivers rich flavors and vibrant colors in every bite. This simple yet elegant recipe enhances the natural sweetness of beets and mellows the sharpness of onions through roasting, resulting in a tender, caramelized medley perfect for any meal. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it pairs beautifully with meats, grains, or as a wholesome addition to salads and bowls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and depth of both beets and onions
• Easy to prepare with minimal effort and a short ingredient list
• A beautiful, colorful dish that enhances any plate
• Versatile enough to serve hot, cold, or at room temperature
• A healthy side dish loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients
• Pairs well with meats, grains, legumes, or as a topping for salads and bowls
• An excellent way to use seasonal root vegetables
• Customizable with different herbs, spices, and finishing touches
• Suitable for meal prep and leftovers store well
• A vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dish that satisfies a variety of dietary needs

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh beets (red, golden, or a mix), peeled and chopped
Red onions or yellow onions, peeled and quartered
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Balsamic vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for finishing)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Prepare vegetables: Peel and chop the beets into uniform chunks. Cut the onions into quarters or thick wedges.
Season and toss: In a large bowl, combine beets and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. Add herbs if using. Toss to coat evenly.
Arrange and roast: Spread vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 35–45 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Finish and serve: Remove from oven. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for added brightness, if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add carrots or parsnips: Roast alongside the beets and onions for a heartier blend
Spiced version: Add cumin, paprika, or crushed red pepper for a warm, spiced flavor
Citrus twist: Add orange zest or juice just before serving for a bright, zesty note
Balsamic glaze: Finish with a thick balsamic reduction for a sweet-savory contrast
Garlic lover’s version: Add whole garlic cloves to the roasting pan for mellow, roasted garlic flavor
Nutty addition: Sprinkle with toasted walnuts or almonds before serving
Creamy topping: Serve with a dollop of goat cheese or feta for richness
Honey drizzle: Add a touch of honey before roasting to enhance the sweetness
Salad-ready: Toss cooled vegetables with arugula and a vinaigrette for a roasted vegetable salad
Grain bowl topping: Add to quinoa or rice bowls with chickpeas and tahini dressing

storage/reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Freezing: Not recommended as the texture may become mushy after thawing
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short bursts
Serving cold: Can be served chilled or at room temperature as part of a salad or antipasto plate

FAQs

Do I need to peel the beets before roasting?

Peeling is optional but recommended for a smoother texture. You can also roast them whole and peel after roasting.

Can I use pre-cooked beets?

Yes. If using pre-cooked beets, add them to the onions halfway through the roasting time to prevent overcooking.

What type of onions are best for this recipe?

Red onions add color and sweetness, but yellow or sweet onions work well too.

How do I avoid staining from beets?

Use gloves when handling red beets and line your cutting board with parchment or wax paper.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Roast the vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat or serve at room temperature.

What herbs pair well with beets and onions?

Thyme, rosemary, dill, and parsley all enhance the earthy flavors of roasted beets.

Are golden beets a good substitute?

Absolutely. Golden beets are slightly milder and less likely to stain.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes. Toss the vegetables with a bit of lemon juice or broth instead of oil and roast on parchment paper.

How do I know when the vegetables are done?

They should be fork-tender and have slightly crisp, caramelized edges.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes. It holds up well in the fridge and can be added to meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

Oven-roasted beets and onions is a nutritious, flavorful side dish that transforms simple root vegetables into a caramelized, savory delight. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, it suits a wide range of meals and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it warm with dinner, chilled in a salad, or as a meal prep component, this colorful dish is both nourishing and delicious. Add it to your weekly rotation and enjoy the beauty of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection.