Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
Earthy roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy candied walnuts tossed with fresh arugula. A simple yet elegant salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette that's perfect for any occasion.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Roast the Beets
- b.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- c.Wash and trim the beets. Place them on a large piece of aluminum foil.
- d.Drizzle with 30 ml (2 tbsp) of olive oil and season with 2 g (1/2 tsp) salt and 1 g (1/4 tsp) black pepper. Toss to coat.
- e.Wrap the beets tightly in the foil to create a sealed packet and place on a baking sheet.
- f.Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- g.Allow the beets to cool for 10-15 minutes, or until cool enough to handle. Use a paper towel to rub off the skins, which should slide off easily. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Candy the Walnuts
- b.While the beets are roasting, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
- c.Add the walnuts and brown sugar. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until the sugar melts and coats the walnuts in a glossy glaze.
- d.Immediately transfer the candied walnuts to a piece of parchment paper, spreading them in a single layer to prevent clumping as they cool.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Balsamic Vinaigrette
- b.In a small bowl or jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, minced shallot, remaining 2 g (1/2 tsp) salt, and 1 g (1/4 tsp) black pepper.
- c.Whisk or shake vigorously to combine.
- d.While whisking continuously, slowly drizzle in the remaining 45 ml (3 tbsp) of olive oil until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Salad
- b.In a large salad bowl, combine the arugula, roasted beet cubes, and about half of the cooled candied walnuts.
- c.Drizzle with about half of the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
- d.Divide the salad among four plates. Crumble the chilled goat cheese over each serving and top with the remaining candied walnuts.
- e.Serve immediately, with extra dressing on the side.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Roasting beets in foil steams them, making the skins incredibly easy to peel off once cooled.
- 2Watch the walnuts carefully while candying; the sugar can go from caramelized to burnt in seconds.
- 3For a smoother vinaigrette, whisk all ingredients except the oil first, then slowly drizzle in the oil while whisking continuously to create a stable emulsion.
- 4Toss the salad with dressing just before serving to prevent the delicate arugula from wilting.
- 5For easier crumbling, chill the goat cheese log in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before use.
- 6Store leftover components separately. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but roasted beets and vinaigrette can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or lentils to make it a more substantial main course.
Nut SwapNut Swap
Substitute walnuts with candied pecans, toasted pistachios, or slivered almonds.
Cheese ChangeCheese Change
If you're not a fan of goat cheese, try using crumbled feta, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan.
Greens VarietyGreens Variety
Use baby spinach, mixed greens, or kale instead of arugula for a different flavor and texture.
Fruit AdditionFruit Addition
Add sliced pear, apple, or orange segments for a touch of fresh sweetness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Beets are rich in betalains and arugula contains vitamin C and other compounds that act as antioxidants, helping to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Supports Heart Health
The combination of monounsaturated fats from olive oil, omega-3 fatty acids from walnuts, and nitrates from beets can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Excellent Source of Fiber
With significant fiber from beets, arugula, and walnuts, this salad aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Boosts Brain Function
The healthy fats in walnuts and olive oil are crucial for brain health, while the nitrates in beets may improve blood flow to the brain, enhancing cognitive function.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this salad contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the exact ingredient portions. It's a nutrient-dense meal with healthy fats, fiber, and protein.