Roasted Beet, Spinach & Walnut Salad Recipe
Description: Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Roasted Beet, Spinach & Walnut Salad! This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the crunch of walnuts, the tang of blue cheese, and the freshness of spinach, all tossed in a delightful balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner.
- Servings: 4
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 5 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 4 | Beets |
| 1 | Onion |
| 1/2 cup | Walnut pieces |
| 2 cloves | Garlic |
| 2 cups | Spinach |
| – | Blue cheese (optional) |
| – | Gorgonzola (optional) |
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Prepare the Roasting Pan: Lightly brush a roasting pan or a cookie sheet with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
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Roast the Beets and Onion: Place the beets and onion in the prepared pan, ensuring they are spread out evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the beets are tender and can be pierced easily with a fork.
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Toast the Walnuts: About 5 minutes before the beets are done, add the walnut pieces to the roasting pan. This will allow them to toast slightly and release their rich flavor.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining 4 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil with the balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the ingredients are well blended and the dressing has emulsified.
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Peel and Slice the Beets and Onion: Once the beets are tender, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the skin using a knife or your fingers, then slice them into rounds or cubes, as desired. Slice the roasted onion as well.
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Assemble the Salad: Transfer the sliced beets and onion to the mixing bowl with the toasted walnuts. Add the fresh spinach leaves.
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Toss to Combine: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the spinach is evenly coated with the dressing and the other ingredients are well distributed.
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Optional: Add Cheese: For an extra burst of flavor, crumble some blue cheese or gorgonzola over the top of the salad.
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Serve: Divide the salad among serving plates and serve immediately, enjoying the vibrant colors and delicious flavors of this nutritious dish!
This Roasted Beet, Spinach & Walnut Salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish, or even as a main course, it’s sure to impress with its delightful combination of textures and flavors. Enjoy the freshness of the spinach, the earthiness of the beets, the crunch of the walnuts, and the creamy tang of the cheese in every bite!
