Raw beet and apple slaw

6 medium red beets

2 large apples, any variety

1 thumb size piece of ginger root

2-3 cloves garlic

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

½ cup balsamic vinegar

4 Tbsp. agave or maple syrup

black pepper, to taste

Peel beets and shred. Core apples and shred. Finely mince peeled ginger and garlic (or grate on a microplane grater) Toss beets, apples, garlic and ginger. Combine applesauce, balsamic vinegar, and agave or maple syrup in a blender. Blend until smooth. Add dressing to beet mixture and toss to combine. Season with pepper to taste. Allow to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours for flavors to meld.

Serves 8-10 as a side dish.