Crispy Easy Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese

In the world of salads, the blend of sweet and earthy flavors complemented by a rich, creamy texture can transform a simple dish into a gourmet experience. This is perfectly exemplified in the Crispy Easy Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese. Originating from the traditional beetroot salads of Eastern Europe, this dish has evolved into a modern classic beloved by many. Its popularity stems from the harmonious balance of the roasted beets with the tangy sharpness of goat cheese, elevated by a crispy texture that adds a delightful contrast.

Ingredients

To recreate this exquisite salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Beets: 6 medium-sized, scrubbed
• Olive oil: 3 tablespoons for roasting
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Mixed greens: 4 cups (such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
• Goat cheese: 150 grams, crumbled
• Walnuts: 1/2 cup, toasted and chopped
• Balsamic vinegar: 2 tablespoons
• Honey: 1 tablespoon
• Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
• Extra virgin olive oil: 4 tablespoons

Instructions

Preparing the Beets

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. If you prefer peeling beets before roasting, peel them now; otherwise, you can easily peel them after they’re cooked. Cut the beets into 1/2-inch slices or wedges.
3. Toss the beet slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until crisp and tender. Flip halfway through for even cooking.

Making the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
2. Gradually whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the dressing is emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens with the roasted beets and half of the goat cheese.
2. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss gently to combine.
3. Top the salad with the remaining goat cheese and toasted walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Tips and Variations

• Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try using pecans or almonds. For a dairy-free version, substitute goat cheese with vegan cheese or simply omit it.
• Additional Ingredients: For those wondering what meat goes well with beet salad, grilled chicken or roasted pork are excellent choices to make it a more substantial meal.
• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, this salad offers:

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 10 g
• Fat: 22 g (Saturated: 5 g)
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 10 g

Conclusion

The Crispy Easy Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese is more than just a salad; it’s a vibrant dish that pleases the palate with every bite. Whether served as a standalone meal or as a side dish to complement your main course, it promises a delightful eating experience. Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations provided to tailor it to your taste.