Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Are you ready to elevate your salad game? This Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is a symphony of flavors and textures: earthy roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy balsamic dressing to tie it all together. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant starter or a light yet satisfying main dish, this salad has you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Beet Salad

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

This salad hits all the right notes—sweet, tangy, and savory. The roasted beets bring a caramelized sweetness, while the goat cheese adds a creamy tang. Toasted walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, complemented by the sharp bite of red onion and the zingy balsamic dressing.

Health-Packed Goodness

Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious. Beets are an excellent source of folate and fiber, while the greens add a burst of vitamins A and C. The healthy fats in olive oil and walnuts round out the nutritional profile.

Simple Yet Elegant

Whether you’re serving this for a dinner party or a weekday lunch, it feels like a treat without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 medium beets, peeled and cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or kale)
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

For the dressing:

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• A sharp knife and cutting board for peeling and cubing the beets.
• Baking sheet for roasting.
• Large mixing bowl for assembling the salad.
• Whisk or fork for preparing the dressing.
• Small skillet (optional) for toasting walnuts.

How to Make Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Step 1: Roast the Beets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the beets are roasting, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

If your walnuts aren’t pre-toasted, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This step enhances their flavor and crunch.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once the beets have cooled slightly, combine the salad greens, roasted beets, sliced red onion, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts in a large bowl.

Step 5: Dress and Serve

Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately for a warm salad or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to enjoy it chilled.

Pro Tips for Perfect Salad Every Time

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, crisp salad greens and high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor.
2. Avoid Soggy Beets: Spread the beets out on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
3. Make Ahead: Roast the beets and prepare the dressing a day ahead to save time. Assemble the salad just before serving.
4. Double the Dressing: This balsamic dressing is versatile and works well on other salads—consider making extra to keep in the fridge!

What to Serve with Roasted Beet Salad

This salad shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: A protein-packed addition for a more substantial meal.
• Soup: Pair with a creamy soup like butternut squash or tomato bisque for a comforting combo.

Storage Instructions

• Leftovers: Store the salad (undressed) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness of the greens.
• Dressing: Refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked beets?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked or vacuum-sealed beets save time. Simply cube them and skip the roasting step.

Can I substitute the goat cheese?

Yes, feta cheese or blue cheese are great alternatives if you prefer something different.

What nuts work best if I don’t have walnuts?

Pecans, almonds, or pistachios can be used as substitutes.

In Conclusion

This Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s versatile, healthy, and perfect for any occasion. I’d love to hear how yours turns out—leave a comment below or share your creations on Pinterest! Don’t forget to tag me on Pinterest to showcase your beautiful dishes.

Looking for more vibrant recipes? Check out these delicious ideas:

• Cranberry Brie Tart with Pancetta & Thyme
• Baked Cranberry Brie Bread Bowl
• Puff Pastry Brie Bites

Happy cooking! 💕

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