Incorporating beets into your culinary repertoire is a fantastic way to add both vibrant color and a nutritional punch to your meals. Beets are loaded with vitamins and minerals such as folate, manganese, potassium, and iron. They also contain a wealth of nutritional benefits, including antioxidants that support heart health and reduce inflammation. This delicious beet and goat cheese salad combines the creamy tanginess of goat cheese and the crunchy nuttiness of walnuts. Yum!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium beets (red and golden, if available)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for roasting
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or parsley)
Instructions:
- Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim the tops and roots off the beets, and scrub them clean. Wrap each beet individually in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven until tender, about 45-60 minutes, depending on their size. Let them cool, then peel and dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the beets are roasting, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will bring a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the beets beautifully.
- Assemble the Salad: Toss the salad greens in a large bowl with enough dressing to lightly coat them. Arrange the greens on plates, then top with the roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts.
- Final Touches: Drizzle some more dressing over the top of each salad and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Serve: Enjoy this salad as a refreshing start to a meal or as a light lunch. The combination of warm beets and cool salad makes for a delightful contrast.
Additional Tips:
- Add orange segments or dried cranberries for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a vegan version, use a plant-based cheese alternative or simply omit the cheese.
- Use a variety of beets for varied colors and flavors.
Beets and other delicious veggies are part of our spring farm box season. Sign up for our farm boxes online today! You can find more delicious recipes on our blog.
