Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

A stunning salad featuring earthy roasted beets and creamy goat cheese, enhanced by a simple vinaigrette. This elegant dish is a delightful balance of sweet and tangy.

• Prep time: 24 minutes
• Cook time: 7 minutes
• Total time: 31 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

• 2 large beets, trimmed and scrubbed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts, toasted
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the whole, scrubbed beets on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap the beets tightly in the foil and roast for 45-60 minutes, or until fork-tender. Let cool slightly, then peel and cut into bite-sized wedges.
4. While beets are roasting, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with about half of the vinaigrette.
6. Arrange the dressed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
7. Top the greens with the roasted beet wedges and crumbled goat cheese.
8. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts.
9. Drizzle the remaining vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.

Tips

• Wear gloves when handling beets to avoid staining your hands.
• Roast beets whole for best flavor and to prevent them from drying out.
• To toast walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until fragrant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked beets?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked, vacuum-sealed beets. Simply peel and chop them, then toss with the greens and other ingredients. You'll miss the caramelized flavor of roasting, but it's a time-saver.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

Feta cheese, blue cheese, or even shaved Parmesan can be used as substitutes for goat cheese, depending on your preference.

How should I store leftovers?

It's best to store the components separately if you have leftovers, as the salad is best assembled just before serving. Roasted beets can be stored for 3-4 days, and the vinaigrette for up to a week.