Delightfully Fresh Roasted Beet Salad with Olives and Feta
This delightful roasted beet salad, inspired by the culinary magic of Ms. Paula H. Deen, showcases the vibrant and earthy flavors of roasted beets, complemented by the briny punch of olives and the creamy richness of feta cheese. It’s an ideal dish to elevate your lunch table or to bring along to a picnic or potluck, offering a combination of textures and tastes that will leave everyone coming back for more. With its ease of preparation and quick cooking time, this salad is perfect for those busy days when you want something nutritious yet delicious.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beets | 2 medium |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Olive Oil | 1½ tablespoons |
| Feta Cheese | ½ cup |
| Ripe Olives | ¼ cup |
| Fresh Dill | ½ tablespoon |
| Olive Oil (additional) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Tabasco Sauce | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 344.2 |
| Total Fat | 28.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 33.4 mg |
| Sodium | 615.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 17.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Sugars | 13.3 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
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Preheat Your Broiler: Begin by preparing your cooking space. Set your oven to broil, ensuring it’s on high, to achieve those beautifully caramelized edges on the beets.
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Prepare the Broiler Pan: To prevent the beets from sticking, generously spray a broiler pan with non-stick cooking spray. This simple step will make cleanup a breeze.
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Toss the Beets: In a mixing bowl, take your two medium-sized beets and peel them if desired. Cut them into even slices for uniform cooking. Add the minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of the olive oil, tossing them together until the beets are well coated with the oil and garlic mixture. This not only enhances flavor but also helps with even roasting.
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Arrange and Broil: Lay the beets in a single layer on the prepared broiler pan. It’s important to give them space so they roast rather than steam. Place them under the broiler and allow them to cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, turn the beets every 2 to 3 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to become a beautiful brown while still maintaining a tender texture.
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Cool the Beets: Once the beets are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature. This cooling step is crucial as it helps to enhance the flavors and prevents wilting the fresh ingredients you’ll be adding next.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the roasted beets with the remaining ingredients: the feta cheese, ripe olives, freshly chopped dill, the additional ¼ teaspoon of olive oil, and a dash of Tabasco sauce to taste. The Tabasco adds a delightful hint of heat that complements the sweetness of the beets beautifully. Gently toss the mixture together to ensure everything is evenly coated without breaking the feta too much.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your vibrant roasted beet salad is now ready to be served. This salad can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, served as a side at a summer barbecue, or as a standalone dish for a light lunch.
This Roasted Beet Salad with Olives and Feta is not just a feast for the eyes with its colorful presentation but also a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With its wholesome ingredients and simple preparation, it is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the vibrant taste of the South, courtesy of Ms. Paula H. Deen!
