What's For Dinner: Beet Slaw, Roasted Beets And Beet Brownies

Not feeling inspired by your usual dishes? Here's what's for dinner.

They may not be the most beautiful thing on the produce stand, but the unassuming beet is packed with nutrients and natural sweetness. Let the root shine in all its sugary glory with this menu in which it's sliced into an autumnal slaw, roasted whole with a creamy dip and baked into a tray of brownies. One word of advice: You might want to change out of that white shirt.

① Appetizer: Raw Beet Slaw with Fennel, Tart Apple and Parsley
Make quick work of prep by busting out the mandoline for this crunchy salad. Store away any leftovers in the refrigerator for lunch tomorrow but be warned: The apple and fennel will turn a shocking shade of pink.

RELATED   The Best Mandoline Slicers for Every Budget "

② Main Course: Roasted Beets with Creamy Goat Cheese and Herbs
Roasting these crimson bulbs concentrates their earthy sweetness even more, and that's where the tangy goat cheese dip comes into play. Serve it on a bed of grains like rice or quinoa for a satisfying fall main.

③ Dessert: Chocolate, Orange and Beet Brownies
We don't think you ever truly need an excuse to eat chocolate, but if you must, this one's simple: There are three whole beets hidden in this batch of orange-scented brownies. Save the green, leafy beet tops to make pesto or a verdant morning smoothie.