Crispy Smashed Beets with Goat Cheese || Gracefult Kitchen

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Crispy Smashed Beets with Goat Cheese

Lamb

Cooked beets are lightly pressed and pan-fried for a charred, crispy outer crust--similar to that of smashed potatoes. The herbed goat cheese dip makes this healthy appetizer or easy side dish even more delicious.

Ingredients

6 small or 4 medium beets (about 1 pound), trimmed and either scrubbed or peeled
¼ cup balsamic vinegar
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
¼ cup goat cheese (2 ounces), at room temperature
2 tablespoons milk
2 tablespoons snipped fresh chives
1 Pinch plus 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided
1 Pinch plus 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper, divided
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Description

Place beets, vinegar and rosemary in a single layer in a large saucepan. Add water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Cover and cook until the beets are very tender, 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Meanwhile, whisk goat cheese and milk in a small bowl until smooth. Stir in chives and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Set aside at room temperature.
When the beets are cooked, transfer them to a cutting board. Cut each beet in half horizontally. Lightly press on each beet with a sturdy salad-size plate or mason jar to flatten it, but keep it intact. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper on both sides of the beets. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the beets and cook, turning once, until browned on both sides and crispy on the edges, 3 to 6 minutes total. Transfer to a plate. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil to the pan and repeat with the remaining beets. Serve with a dollop of the goat cheese mixture.