Beet salad with goat cheese and nuts is a delightful combination of earthy, sweet beets with creamy goat cheese and crunchy nuts. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe to make this refreshing salad:
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 medium beets, roasted, peeled, and sliced or cubed
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts, toasted
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby greens)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple or pear, thinly sliced (optional, for extra sweetness and crunch)
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Beets:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wrap the beets in aluminum foil and roast them for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Alternatively, you can boil them until tender.
- Let the beets cool slightly, then peel and slice or cube them.
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Toast the Nuts:
- While the beets are roasting, toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until they are golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
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Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced red onion, and sliced apple or pear (if using).
- Gently toss in the roasted beets.
- Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat.
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Add Toppings:
- Top the salad with crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts.
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Serve:
- Serve immediately or chill for a short while before serving.
Tips
- Beet Preparation: If you prefer, you can use pre-cooked, vacuum-sealed beets to save time.
- Nut Alternatives: Feel free to use other nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds if you prefer.
- Flavor Variations: Add some fresh herbs like basil or mint for extra freshness.
This beet salad with goat cheese and nuts is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a beautiful addition to a holiday spread. Enjoy!
