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Discover the delightful blend of earthy Roasted Beet Salad with Creamy Goat Cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy-sweet honey-Dijon vinaigrette in this vibrant salad recipe. Perfect as a refreshing starter or a satisfying light meal, this Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether youโre hosting a dinner party or enjoying a simple lunch, this salad offers a delicious way to enjoy fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients for Roasted Beet Salad with Creamy Goat Cheese
For the Salad:
โข 4 medium beets, scrubbed and trimmed
โข 2 cups mixed greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
โข 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
โข 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
โข 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
For the Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette:
โข 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
โข 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
โข 2 tablespoons honey
โข 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
โข 1 teaspoon lemon juice
โข Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions for Roasted Beet Salad with Creamy Goat Cheese
1. Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Allow the beets to cool, then peel and cut into bite-sized cubes.
2. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with a small amount of the vinaigrette. Arrange the greens on a serving platter or individual plates. Top with roasted beet cubes, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and sliced red onion.
4. Dress and Serve: Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette over the salad. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
โข Prep Time: 15 minutes
โข Cooking Time: 1 hour
โข Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information about Roasted Beet Salad with Creamy Goat Cheese
โข Calories per Serving: 290 kcal
โข Servings: 4
Tips
โข To save time, you can roast the beets a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
โข For extra crunch, consider adding a handful of sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
โข If you prefer a tangier vinaigrette, increase the amount of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice.
Benefits of Roasted Beet Salad with Creamy Goat Cheese
This salad is a nutritious choice, offering a wealth of benefits:
โข Beets are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients like folate and potassium, which support heart health and energy levels.
โข Goat cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium, with a creamy texture that complements the beets.
โข Walnuts add healthy fats and are known for their brain-boosting properties.
โข Mixed greens provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune function and skin health.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-cooked beets for this recipe?A: Yes, pre-cooked or canned beets can be used. Just ensure they are well-drained and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Q: How long can I store the salad?A: The assembled salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store the components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Dress the salad just before serving to avoid wilting the greens.
Q: Can I make the vinaigrette in advance?A: Absolutely. The vinaigrette can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just shake or whisk it well before using.
Conclusion
The Vibrant Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese, Walnuts, and Honey-Dijon Vinaigrette is a delightful dish that combines flavor, texture, and nutrition in every bite. With its colorful presentation and balanced taste, this salad makes for a versatile addition to any meal. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, itโs sure to impress with its freshness and satisfying elements. Enjoy this salad as a healthy option that not only tastes great but also contributes to your well-being.
