Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your salad experience! This Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts is not just a dish—it's a symphony of flavors that combines earthy roasted beets, peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted walnuts. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or a gourmet enthusiast, this French-inspired recipe promises to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining adventure that will leave your guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium beets
- 4 cups arugula
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the beets thoroughly and trim off the root and stem ends.
- Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet to retain moisture during roasting.
- Place the foil-wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a knife can easily pierce through the beet.
- Remove beets from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes. Once cool enough to handle, use a paper towel to gently rub off the skin.
- Cut the roasted beets into bite-sized wedges or cubes.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Arrange fresh arugula on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Distribute the roasted beet pieces over the arugula.
- Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and toasted walnuts over the salad.
- Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the salad just before serving.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant, flavorful salad.
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm beets with smooth, unblemished skin for the best roasting results.
- Wear disposable gloves when handling beets to prevent staining your hands.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary during roasting.
- Toast walnuts carefully—they can burn quickly, so keep a close eye and stir frequently.
- For a more intense beet flavor, consider using a mix of red and golden beets.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld.
- If you prefer a warmer salad, serve the beets slightly warm instead of completely cooled.
- For a vegan version, replace goat cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
