Description
Seasonal beet and goat cheese salad showcases Mediterranean flavors with roasted beets, creamy cheese, and fresh herbs. Crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette create a harmonious blend you’ll savor with each refreshing bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach and arugula)
- 2 medium-sized beets
- 4 oz (113 g) soft goat cheese
- 1/2 cup (60 g) walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F and individually wrap whole beets in aluminum foil, creating sealed packets to preserve moisture during roasting.
- Place beet packets on baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes until vegetables can be easily pierced with a knife, indicating tender texture.
- Remove beets from oven and allow to cool slightly, then carefully peel skin under cool running water, which will slide off effortlessly.
- Slice roasted beets into uniform wedges to ensure consistent size and elegant presentation in salad.
- Select fresh mixed greens and thoroughly rinse under cold water, then pat dry using clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Heat dry skillet over medium temperature and toast walnuts for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and achieve golden-brown color.
- Assemble salad by layering crisp mixed greens as base, then artfully arrange beet wedges, scatter crumbled goat cheese, and sprinkle toasted nuts across surface.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette evenly over salad, gently tossing ingredients to distribute dressing and maintain delicate components.
- Serve immediately to preserve texture and temperature, ensuring optimal flavor and freshness of each ingredient.
Notes
- Roast beets ahead of time to save preparation time and develop deeper, sweeter flavors during slow cooking.
- Choose firm, smooth beets without soft spots for the best texture and most intense color in your salad.
- Swap goat cheese with feta or vegan cheese alternatives for dietary preferences while maintaining creamy, tangy elements.
- Enhance nutrition by adding extra protein like grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg