I have a confession to make. I am a registered dietitian and I don’t like beets.  There, I said it. Phew, I feel better getting it off my chest.

At least that was the case until today. I have tried numerous beet recipes in the past, always hopeful that one of them would be a “keeper”. But the recipes always failed to cover up the dirty, earthy after taste. I have tried Harvard beets, grilled beets, steamed beets, pickled beets, raw beets, beet hummus, and even beets in a smoothie. But I was always left saying the same thing: “I just don’t like beets!”

Well, I’m here to tell you that I have found a beet recipe that is amazing! It is simple to make and oh, so pretty.

As a warning, when dealing with beets, you will want to wear an apron (or at least avoid wearing white). As proof, here is a photo of the aftermath.

All you do for the burgers is grate the beets and onion, stir in the rest of the ingredients, and let it rest for a minimum of 30 minutes. Letting it rest is what allows it to stick together.

Beet and Feta Burgers

(Makes 6 to 8 burgers)

• 3 cups grated beets (about 4 to 5 beets)
• 1 onion
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 8 ounces feta cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt and black pepper
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil, for frying

1. Peel and grate beets and onion, using a box grater or food processor.
2. Place the grated vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add garlic, olive oil, eggs, rolled oats, feta, basil, salt and pepper and mix everything well.
4. Set aside for about 30 minutes, so the oats can soak up the liquid and the mixture sets (this step is important for the patties to hold together).
5. Try shaping a patty with your hands. If the mixture is to loose, add additional oats.
6. Form 6 to 8 patties with your hands.
7. In a large skillet on the stove over medium-high heat, warm the oil. Fry the burgers 3-5 minutes on each side, cooking until they are crispy and golden.
8. Serve with a grilled ciabatta roll and toppings of your choice (lettuce, avocado, tomatoes, and onions).