Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Description
Discover the delightful harmony of roasted beets paired with creamy goat cheese in this refreshing salad. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal using canned beets or prefer the rich flavors of freshly roasted ones, this recipe accommodates both. The tangy vinaigrette perfectly complements the earthy sweetness of the beets and the creamy texture of the goat cheese. Ideal for a light lunch or a colorful side dish at dinner, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beets | 2 |
| Red leaf lettuce | 2 handfuls |
| Lettuce leaves | 1/4 head |
| Shallots | 2 |
| Red wine vinegar | 4 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Goat cheese | to taste |
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Roast Beets: Wrap the beets individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven until tender, approximately 1 hour.
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Cool and Peel: Allow the roasted beets to cool slightly, then peel off the skins while they are still warm. This makes the peeling process easier.
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Slice Beets: Using a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife, slice the beets into thin, even slices. This enhances the salad’s presentation and texture.
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Prepare Vinaigrette: In a bowl or blender, combine red wine vinegar and olive oil. Whisk or blend until the vinaigrette is emulsified and well-combined.
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Toss Beets: Place the beet slices in a bowl and toss them gently with half of the prepared vinaigrette. This ensures the beets are evenly coated with flavor.
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Prepare Greens: In another bowl, toss the red leaf lettuce and lettuce leaves with the remaining vinaigrette. This step ensures the greens are well-dressed and flavorful.
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Assemble Salad: Arrange the dressed greens on a serving plate or bowl. Top them with the sliced beets, distributing them evenly for a visually appealing dish.
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Add Goat Cheese: Crumble the desired amount of goat cheese over the top of the salad. The creamy and tangy flavor of the goat cheese complements the sweet beets and tangy vinaigrette.
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Serve: This salad is best served immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 134.7
- Total Fat: 13.6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 23.6mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 3.1g
- Fiber: 0.6g
- Sugars: 2.1g
- Protein: 0.7g
Tips for Variation
- Quick Option: Use canned or jarred sliced beets if you’re short on time.
- Cheese Substitute: Substitute goat cheese with feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Crunch: Add toasted nuts or seeds such as walnuts or pumpkin seeds for added texture.
- Greens Variety: Experiment with different types of greens like arugula or spinach for varied tastes and textures.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course: Serve with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Side Dish: Pair with a hearty soup or crusty bread for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Appetizer: Serve smaller portions as a starter for a multi-course meal.
This Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad is not only visually striking but also bursting with flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing it as a quick lunch or an elegant side dish, its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy the vibrant colors and delicious combinations of this wholesome salad! 🥗
