Beetroot and Cottage Cheese Tartines

This delightful dish combines the earthy flavor of roasted beets with a rich and creamy cottage cheese spread, making it a delicious choice for any gathering or casual meal at home. The tartines offer a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, with the crispness of rye bread contrasting beautifully with the soft creaminess of the cheese and subtle sweetness of the beets. The addition of cranberries brings a fruity pop that elevates the overall taste, while chives add a slight hint of freshness. It's a nutritious option, packed with healthy ingredients, and can be creatively adapted to accommodate different preferences or dietary needs. The serving presentation is visually appealing, ensuring that your plate looks inviting. You can enjoy these tartines as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. They are easy and quick to prepare, offering both simplicity and gourmet appeal. With a little preparation, this dish can become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 beets
• 200 g cottage cheese
• 6 slices of rye bread
• 6 cranberries

Spices & Sauces

• 5 tablespoons chopped chives
• 3 tablespoons sour cream
• Salt, to taste
• Butter, as needed

Preparation Time

• Total time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius and allow it to heat up.
2. Prepare the Beets: Peel the beets and slice them into uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly.
3. Roast the Beets: Place the beet slices on a baking tray and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes until tender.
4. Prepare the Cheese Mix: In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese with sour cream, chopped chives, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
5. Prepare the Bread: Take the slices of rye bread and use a round cutter or a cup to create circular pieces. This step is optional but recommended for a refined look.
6. Toast the Bread: Lightly toast the rye circles in a toaster or on a skillet, ensuring they remain crisp but not overly hard.
7. Butter the Bread: Once toasted, spread a thin layer of butter on each slice.
8. Assembly - Layering: Start by placing a slice of beet on each buttered bread piece.
9. Add Cheese Layer: Spoon the cottage cheese mixture over the beet slices, smoothing it out with the back of the spoon.
10. Another Beet Layer: Add another slice of beet over the cheese layer to enhance its colorfulness.
11. Final Cheese Layer: Add one more dollop of the cheese mix on top.
12. Finishing Touch: place a cranberry atop each tartine for a pop of color and sweetness.
13. Season & Serve: Sprinkle additional chives over the top if desired for added flavor and presentation.
14. Rest Before Serving: Allow the tartines to sit for a minute to let flavors meld slightly.
15. Taste & Adjust: Before plating, taste one of the assembled tartines to check for seasoning, adjusting if needed.
16. Plating: Arrange the tartines on a serving platter, spacing them out to look appealing.
17. Garnish Options: Consider adding a few whole chives around the platter for aesthetic appeal.
18. Pairing: Serve immediately with a side salad or as part of a larger appetizer spread.
19. Cooling Note: The tartines are best enjoyed warm at room temperature.
20. Enjoy: Savor each bite, appreciating the blend of flavors and textures.

Tips

• Substitute Ingredients: You can use goat cheese instead of cottage cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Enhance Flavor: Add a dash of balsamic glaze over the top for extra depth.
• Make-Ahead: Beets can be roasted ahead of time and stored in the fridge to save preparation time.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g

Variations

• For vegans, replace cottage cheese with vegan cheese and use olive oil in place of butter.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread instead of rye.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside a glass of chilled white wine or refreshing iced tea.

Best Places

• Le Petit Jardin - Known for its fresh, organic meals and relaxed ambiance. Location: 123 Green St, Paris, France.
• Beetroot Café - A cozy spot specializing in vegetarian dishes. Location: 456 Maple Ave, Vancouver, Canada.
• The Rustic Table - Offers homemade-style dishes with local ingredients. Location: 789 Oak Rd, Melbourne, Australia.
• Gourmet Bazaar - Features a variety of international flavors and fusion dishes. Location: 321 Market St, New York, USA.
• Harmonie - Elegant dining with an emphasis on seasonal produce. Location: 654 Harmony Ln, Tokyo, Japan.
• Amelia’s Kitchen - Family-owned venue with a warm atmosphere. Location: 111 Main St, Dublin, Ireland.
• Torte & Tartine - Famous for its decorative presentations and pastries. Location: 222 Baker St, London, UK.
• Nature’s Delight - Offers a full plant-based menu for health-conscious diners. Location: 333 Forest Dr, Berlin, Germany.
• Cocina Verde - A vibrant place focusing on sustainable cuisine. Location: 444 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
• Casa de Campo - Known for its fusion of traditional and modern flavors. Location: 555 Courtyard Pl, Madrid, Spain.