Looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Look no further than this Balsamic Beet Kale Salad! Packed with earthy beets, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of flavor. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful American classic that’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even a potluck favorite. Ready to elevate your salad game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup cooked beets, diced
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the kale thoroughly under cold running water, removing any tough stems. Pat dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even distribution and easier eating.
- If using fresh beets, roast or boil them until tender, then dice into small cubes. If using pre-cooked beets, simply dice them into uniform small pieces.
- Toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their nutty flavor.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a simple vinaigrette dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale, diced beets, and toasted walnuts.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the top of the salad just before serving.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together, then serve immediately at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and nutrition, opt for fresh kale and beets. If using fresh beets, roasting them will bring out their natural sweetness.
- Kale Preparation: Make sure to massage the kale with a little olive oil or salt after chopping. This helps to soften the leaves and reduce bitterness, making for a more enjoyable salad.
- Toasting Walnuts: Don’t skip toasting the walnuts! This simple step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
- Vinaigrette Variations: Feel free to experiment with the vinaigrette by adding a touch of honey or Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Letting the salad sit for about 5 minutes after dressing allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but serve it at room temperature for the best taste experience.
- Make it Your Own: This salad is versatile! Add other ingredients like sliced apples or dried cranberries for a sweet twist, or swap the goat cheese for feta or blue cheese based on your preference.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 185kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
