Savory Roasted Beets with Orange Ginger Glaze and Spiced Pepita Crunch

Ingredients

• •4 medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges
• •2 tablespoons olive oil
• •1 teaspoon salt
• •1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• •1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• •1 tablespoon orange zest
• •1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• •1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• •1/4 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• •1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• •1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• •1 teaspoon olive oil (for pepitas)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. 2

   In a large bowl, toss the beet wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

3. 3

   Spread the beets in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. 4

   While the beets roast, prepare the orange ginger glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the orange juice, orange zest, grated ginger, and honey (or maple syrup). Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

5. 5

   For the spiced pepitas, in a small bowl, mix the pepitas with smoked paprika, ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon olive oil until evenly coated. Spread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.

6. 6

   Once the beets are roasted, transfer them to a serving dish and drizzle with the orange ginger glaze.

7. 7

   Sprinkle the spiced pepitas over the glazed beets for added crunch. Serve warm or at room temperature.