Eat This For More Stamina
This beetroot and orzo tray bake is the perfect pre-run dish
Harness the awesome power of beetroot with a tasty tray bake
BEETROOT is a genuine superfood. Studies have shown the nitrates in the root vegetable can boost aerobic performance by elevating the level of nitric oxide in the blood, which allows you to consume more oxygen during exertion. Pair it with a carb powerhouse such as orzo pasta to make an ideal pre-race dinner.
BEETROOT AND ORZO TRAY BAKE
Serves: 4
Per serving:
555 kcals; 23g protein; 64g carbs; 22g fat; 7g fibre; 10g total sugars
300g raw beetroot 300g orzo pasta 800ml vegetable stock 50g cream cheese 100g parmesan, grated, plus extra to serve 3 tbsp pesto Large handful basil, roughly torn 25g pine nuts
1 / Heat oven to 200C (180C fan), gas mark 6.
2 / Wearing gloves to prevent your hands staining, peel and grate the beetroot. Put into a large roasting tin. Add orzo, stock and plenty of seasoning.
3 / Cook in oven for 25min, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4 / Mix in the cream cheese and parmesan. Dollop on the pesto and marble through. Sprinkle on the basil and pine nuts. Serve with extra parmesan, if you like.