Description
A colorful, earthy salad featuring roasted beets, creamy feta cheese, crunchy toasted walnuts, and fresh mixed greens, all brought together with a simple, tangy balsamic dressing. This wholesome Mediterranean-inspired salad is perfect as a light main or a flavorful side, suitable for any season.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 medium beetroots, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Roast the beets: Toss the cubed beets with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and black pepper to coat evenly. Spread them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until the beets are tender and caramelized on the edges.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange the mixed greens on a large serving platter or bowl. Scatter the roasted beets evenly over the greens. Top with crumbled feta, toasted walnuts, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Dress and serve: Drizzle the prepared balsamic dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Golden beets can be included alongside red beets for added color variation.
- For a creamier cheese option, substitute feta with goat cheese.
- Roasted beets can be prepared 1–2 days in advance and refrigerated until ready to assemble, making this salad great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Salad / Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
