Roasted Beet White Bean Grain Bowl

Name: Roasted Beet White Bean Grain Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium beets, peeled and cut into cubes; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup quinoa, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 cup baby spinach; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish); 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love this Roasted Beet White Bean Grain Bowl for its vibrant colors and delightful textures. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets perfectly complements the creamy white beans, while the quinoa adds a satisfying chewiness to each bite. This dish is not only visually stunning but also rich in nutrients, making it a fantastic option for lunch or dinner. Whether I'm meal prepping for the week or serving it at a gathering, this bowl never fails to impress my family and friends.

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:49:34.931Z

When I first made this roasted beet and white bean grain bowl, the result left me amazed. The key was ensuring the beets were perfectly roasted, bringing out their natural sweetness while developing a wonderful texture. I found that roasting them at a high temperature for just the right amount of time allows for that caramelized depth of flavor that ties the whole dish together. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy, yet it’s incredibly easy to prepare.

Another standout aspect of this recipe is the combination of grains and beans, which not only makes it filling but also packed with protein and fiber. I always incorporate a variety of grains like quinoa or farro to add texture, which transforms a simple bowl into a hearty meal. Trust me, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant colors and delicious flavors meld together beautifully
Nutritious and hearty, perfect for any meal
Suitable for both meal prep and entertaining

Mastering the Roasted Beets

Roasting beets is all about achieving that perfect tender texture while enhancing their natural sweetness. After preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensure the beets are well-coated with olive oil, as this helps them caramelize beautifully, creating a lovely golden exterior. Monitor them closely during the last few minutes; they should be fork-tender and slightly crispy around the edges. If you're short on time, consider cutting the beets into smaller cubes to speed up cooking.

The flavor of roasted beets can vary based on how long you cook them. For a milder taste, roast for the shorter end of the suggested time. Conversely, for deep caramelization, extending the roasting time could enhance their earthiness. Just keep in mind to flip them halfway to promote even cooking; a little char adds wonderful depth.

Perfecting the Quinoa

Quinoa is a fantastic base for this grain bowl, offering protein and fiber. Rinsing it before cooking is essential to remove saponins, which can impart a bitter taste. I always cook my quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor; it elevates the entire dish. Ensure you bring the broth to a rolling boil before adding the quinoa, then immediately reduce to a low simmer for 15 minutes. The quinoa is ready when you can see the little white spirals, indicating it's fluffy and fully cooked.

If you're looking for variety, consider swapping quinoa with other grains like farro or barley. Each grain brings its unique texture and flavor. Just be aware that different grains have varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly. For meal prep, cooked quinoa can be stored in the fridge for up to five days, maintaining its freshness and texture.

Crafting Your Own Dressing

The dressing in this Roasted Beet White Bean Grain Bowl is key to unifying the dish’s flavors. The balsamic vinegar adds acidity, while honey or maple syrup provides a touch of sweetness to balance the earthiness of the beets. Adjust the honey depending on your taste preference; if you prefer a tangier dressing, reduce the amount. Additionally, for a vegan option, maple syrup is an excellent substitute for honey that won't compromise on flavor.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in your dressing to find your perfect blend. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or freshly chopped herbs can significantly elevate the flavor profile. Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week; the flavors will meld beautifully over time.

Ingredients

For the Bowls

2 medium beets, peeled and cut into cubes
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 cup baby spinach
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Roast the Beets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25–30 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.

Cook the Quinoa

While the beets are roasting, bring vegetable broth or water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked quinoa among four bowls. Top with roasted beets, white beans, baby spinach, and avocado slices. Drizzle the dressing over the bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding roasted nuts or seeds on top for crunch. You can also customize the grains based on your preference, using farro or brown rice for a different texture.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Roasted Beet White Bean Grain Bowl is ideal for meal prepping. You can roast the beets, cook the quinoa, and prepare the dressing ahead of time, allowing you to assemble the bowls quickly throughout the week. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge, which helps keep everything fresh and prevents sogginess. The cooked quinoa and baked beets can last for about five days, making it perfect for busy lunches or dinners.

If you're making the bowls in advance, I recommend adding the avocado right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and creamy texture. You can also pack the dressing separately, which preserves its freshness and prevents the grains from becoming mushy. Consider portioning out the ingredients into grab-and-go containers, so you have a tasty meal ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes.

Serving and Variations

There are countless ways to customize your Roasted Beet White Bean Grain Bowl. You might add a sprinkle of feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy contrast. If you prefer more protein, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even a poached egg make excellent additions. Each variation can shift the flavor profile, allowing this dish to adapt to your taste preferences easily.

For a colder option, you could serve the entire bowl chilled, especially on warm days. To do this, let the bowl components cool to room temperature before assembly. Alternatively, consider turning this into a salad by adding crisp lettuce or arugula instead of baby spinach, which would provide an enjoyable crunch. Experimentation with different toppings or sauces can keep this recipe exciting every time you make it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beets instead of roasting?

Yes, you can use canned beets for convenience, but roasting enhances the flavor and texture.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Roasted Beet White Bean Grain Bowl is completely vegan!

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, using quinoa makes this dish gluten-free, but clear any other grains or ingredients to be certain.