This Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is a vibrant and healthy addition to your meal plan. You’ll love its earthy sweetness balanced with creamy goat cheese, making it a perfect healthy beet recipe. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Beets: Use fresh beets for the best flavor; pre-cooked, vacuum-sealed beets can be a time-saver.
- Goat Cheese: Feta or a crumbled plant-based cheese can work as alternatives.
- Mixed Greens: Any tender leafy greens like spinach or arugula are great choices.
- Walnuts: Pecans or almonds offer a similar crunch.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 medium beets, tops and tails removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 ounces mixed greens
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Pinch of salt and pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 320 kcal
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Beets for Roasting
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and peel your beets, then cut them into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures even cooking for your healthy beet recipe.
2. Roast the Beets
Toss the beet cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Let them cool slightly.
3. Whisk Together the Dressing
While the beets cool, prepare your dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble Your Salad
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooled roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts. You’re building a beautiful, healthy beet recipe right here.
5. Dress and Serve
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Variation Ideas
- Add orange segments for a citrusy burst.
- Include thinly sliced red onion for a sharper flavor.
- Try avocado cubes for added creaminess and healthy fats.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like dill or mint.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover salad components separately. Keep the dressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store undressed ingredients like roasted beets and dressing for up to 3-4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you roast beets without peeling them?
A: Yes, you can roast them unpeeled. The skins will become soft and can be easily removed after roasting, or you can eat them for extra fiber.
Q: What type of beets are best for roasting?
A: Red beets are commonly used, but golden beets also roast beautifully and offer a milder, less earthy flavor.
Q: Can you make the dressing ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing up to 3-4 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: How do you avoid beet stains?
A: Wearing gloves when handling raw or roasted red beets can help prevent your hands from staining.
Q: Is this salad good for meal prepping?
A: Yes, you can prep the roasted beets, toast the walnuts, and make the dressing ahead of time. Keep everything separate and assemble just before serving for the best experience.
Q: Are beets good for you?
A: Beets are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a very healthy addition to your diet, perfect for a healthy beet recipe.