Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe – Healthy
The Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe is a delightful, nutrient-rich dish that perfectly balances sweet, earthy beets with creamy, tangy goat cheese. This salad is ideal for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even a healthy appetizer at a gathering. The combination of fresh greens, crunchy nuts, and a simple vinaigrette creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making this salad both delicious and visually stunning. Whether you’re looking for a nutrient-packed meal or a show-stopping salad to impress guests, this recipe is a must-try!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Calcium: 10% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
- Course: Salad, Appetizer
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 250
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Salad tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 medium beets, washed and trimmed
- 4 oz (113g) goat cheese, crumbled
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
- 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Beets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife easily pierces through them.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, peel off the skins using a paper towel or your hands.
- Cut the beets into thin slices or bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Set aside to let the flavors meld while preparing the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add the mixed greens.
- Top with roasted beet slices, crumbled goat cheese, toasted nuts, and red onions.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color (optional).
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- If preparing in advance, store components separately and assemble just before serving.
Tips for the Best Salad
- Choose fresh beets: Fresh, firm beets will have a sweeter taste and better texture.
- Roast in advance: Roasted beets can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making this salad easy to assemble anytime.
- Try different nuts: Swap walnuts for almonds or pistachios for a different crunch.
- Goat cheese alternatives: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try feta, blue cheese, or even ricotta.
- Enhance with citrus: A squeeze of fresh orange or lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Beets: Roast and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Dressing: Make ahead and refrigerate for up to a week.
- Salad assembly: Assemble fresh just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe is a healthy, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, its balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors will surely impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a nutrient-packed, restaurant-quality salad at home!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.