Guest Recipe 

By Shannon Cilento, 

Community Development and  Communications Manager

Turn up the BEET with this simple and healthy homemade pasta sauce alternative. Beets are low in calories but high in nitrates which research shows improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure and increase blood oxygen. Beets are also rich in folate, antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, the sauce is a brilliant magenta color which makes for a plate that is not only beautiful but nutritious!

YIELD: 6 servings

Ingredients:

1 lb. of cooked beets (about 4 medium)

2 Tbsp. olive oil 

1 shallot, peeled

1 Tbsp. garlic, minced or fresh

1 ½ cups low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese

½ cup parmesan cheese 

1 lemon zested & juiced 

¼ tsp. nutmeg 

½ tsp. salt 

½ tsp. pepper 

½ cup. reserved pasta water 

Optional Toppings: whipped ricotta, crushed pistachios, fresh mint or basil, shredded parmesan.

Directions:

Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Add reserved pasta water slowly until sauce reaches desired texture. Serve over a whole grain or vegetable-based pasta or spiralized zucchini (“zoodles”) and enjoy!

Nutrition fact source:

https://www.heart.org/en/news/2023/02/22/give-me-a-beet-why-this-root-vegetable-should-be-on-your-plate.