Who knew a salad could be such a rollercoaster of flavors? This roasted beet and feta creation—it’s like a party in your mouth, where sweetness and saltiness dance wildly together. I mean, beets are practically the unsung heroes of the vegetable world, right?
Steps
- Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, orange juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Place a mix of spinach and arugula at the bottom of a large bowl or divide between two bowls for individual servings.
- Layer the cooked and sliced beets and peeled orange slices on top of the greens in an alternating pattern.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts over the salad for added flavor and texture.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
- Serve the salad either at room temperature or chilled for optimal taste and enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces of spinach and arugula mix
- 4 medium beets, cooked and sliced
- 2 navel oranges, peeled and sliced
- ¼ cup of chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons of feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Orange juice
- Red wine vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 247kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 8mg | Sodium: 356mg | Potassium: 537mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 926IU | Vitamin C: 54mg | Calcium: 138mg | Iron: 2mg
FAQ
- What pairs well with beet orange salad?
- Beet orange salad is delightful on its own as a nutritious lunch. It also complements many main dishes, making it a superb side dish for gatherings. Consider serving it with options like sheet pan salmon, grilled chicken kabobs, or black bean burgers.
- Is it necessary to cook the beets for this salad?
- Yes, cooking the beets is essential. You can either roast or boil them, depending on your preference. For convenience, you can also purchase pre-cooked beets from the store.
- How long can you store the salad and dressing?
- The undressed salad can be kept in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days if covered properly. The dressing can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.
- Can I prepare this salad in advance?
- Yes, you can make the dressing up to 7 days ahead of time. The salad itself can be prepared a day in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Tips
- Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the greens fresh and crisp, add the dressing only when you’re ready to serve the salad. This prevents the greens from wilting, allowing them to stay vibrant and delicious.
- Select Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this salad means that the quality of your ingredients really shines. Use fresh, ripe, and preferably organic produce to enhance the flavor and overall appeal of the dish.
- Prep Beets Ahead of Time: To save time, consider boiling a large batch of beets in advance. They can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it easy to whip up this salad or use them in other recipes.
- Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to swap out ingredients to suit your preferences. You can use different types of greens, nuts, or cheeses to create a variation that you love.
Equipment
- Salad Spinner – For washing and drying the greens efficiently.
- Mandoline Slicer – For evenly slicing the beets and oranges.
- Whisk – For blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Airtight Containers – For storing any leftovers or pre-made components.
- Citrus Juicer – If you’re making fresh orange juice for the dressing.
