Description
A vibrant and fresh Beet Salad with Goat Cheese that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, creamy tangy goat cheese, peppery greens, crunchy nuts, and a balanced balsamic dressing. This easy-to-make salad is nutritious, colorful, and perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3–4 medium fresh beets (roasted or boiled)
- 4 oz soft goat cheese (crumbled)
- 4 cups arugula or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans (chopped, toasted)
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons good quality olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beets: Start by washing and trimming your fresh beets. Roast them wrapped in foil at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes until tender, or boil them in water for 30-40 minutes. Once cooled, peel off the skins with your hands or a paper towel and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to balance the tart and sweet flavors perfectly.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, lightly drizzle the mixed greens with some of the dressing and toss to coat. Add the roasted beets on top, then sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and chopped toasted nuts. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to combine all flavors evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish the salad with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme and an extra crack of black pepper. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest textures and flavors.
Notes
- Roast beets whole in foil to retain moisture and enhance sweetness.
- Use room temperature ingredients to blend flavors without wilting greens.
- Lightly toast nuts to bring out richness and add crunch.
- Prepare and chill the dressing in advance for deeper flavor.
- Use just enough goat cheese for creaminess without overpowering the salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg