Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe

Roasted beets bring a vibrant color and earthy flavor to the table in this Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe. Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or a healthy lunch option, this salad pairs beautifully with various main dishes. The blend of roasted beets, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta creates a delightful contrast that makes it stand out. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite herbs or greens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad can be whipped up quickly.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet beets, nutty walnuts, and tangy feta come together for a taste explosion.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side with grilled meats or as a light main dish on its own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and nuts, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic or a dinner party, this salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting beets and toasting walnuts evenly.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture while roasting the beets, ensuring they’re tender and flavorful.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Essential for emulsifying the vinaigrette smoothly.

Ingredients

Roasted beets tossed in a flavorful walnut vinaigrette and finished with fresh parsley and salty feta.

For the Salad

• 2 pounds red beets, (trimmed, washed and dried)
• ¾ cup walnut halves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 3 ounces crumbled feta or fresh goat cheese
• ¼ cup chopped parsley

How to Make Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat oven to 400ºF (204ºC) with racks set in upper-middle position and lower-middle position.

Step 2: Roast the Beets

Wrap each beet individually in foil then place directly on the upper-middle oven rack. Roast until a thin knife blade slides into beets with little resistance, about 1—2 hours.

Step 3: Toast the Walnuts

Add walnuts to a baking sheet and transfer to the lower-middle oven rack; toast until fragrant and golden brown, approximately 8–12 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Cool the Beets

Transfer roasted beets to a sheet pan or cutting board. Let cool until they are cool enough to unwrap. Allow them to cool for about 15 minutes before peeling.

Step 5: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and honey. Using a microplane, grate 6 walnut halves into the vinaigrette; whisk to combine then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Slice the Beets

Cut peeled beets into quarters then slice crosswise into ¼-inch thick slices.

Step 7: Combine Beets with Vinaigrette

Add sliced beets to vinaigrette and toss to coat well.

Step 8: Add Remaining Ingredients

Roughly chop remaining walnuts. Add half of chopped walnuts, half of crumbled feta, and half of parsley to salad; toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 9: Serve

Transfer salad to a serving bowl or platter. Top with remaining walnuts, feta, and parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad!

How to Serve Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe

This Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad is not only colorful but also versatile. It can be served in various ways to enhance any meal or occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

• Serve it as a light main dish, especially during warm weather. The robust flavors make it satisfying enough on its own.

With Grilled Chicken or Turkey

• Pair the salad with grilled chicken or turkey for a protein-packed meal. The flavors of the meat complement the sweet and salty notes of the salad.

On a Bed of Greens

• For added freshness, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens such as arugula or spinach. This adds extra nutrients and texture.

As a Side Dish

• This salad makes an excellent side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs well with grilled meats and fish.

At a Potluck

• Bring this salad to potlucks or gatherings—its vibrant colors and unique taste will surely impress your friends and family.

How to Perfect Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe

To make your Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad even more delightful, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Beets: Fresh, firm beets will yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid soft or wrinkled ones.
• Toast Walnuts Lightly: Toasting walnuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Watch closely to prevent burning.
• Adjust Vinaigrette: Feel free to tweak the vinaigrette ingredients according to your taste preferences. A splash more vinegar can add brightness!
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This melds the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: While feta is delicious, try using goat cheese for a creamier texture that balances nicely with the beets.
• Add Seasonal Herbs: Incorporating herbs like mint or dill can elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe

When serving this flavorful salad, complement it with these side dishes for a well-rounded meal.

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Assorted seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs, then grilled until tender.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish seasoned with lemon and herbs that pairs well with the salad’s richness.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and spices provide a sweet contrast to the tangy salad.
4. Hummus with Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crunchy pita chips offers a delightful dip option alongside the salad.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed with garlic makes for a low-carb side that complements beet flavors well.
6. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs adds another layer of texture to your meal.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices offer hearty bites that pair nicely with the lightness of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Boldly underestimate roast time: Roasting beets can take longer than expected. Make sure to check for tenderness after an hour, but they may need up to two hours.
• Boldly skip cooling: Allowing the roasted beets to cool before peeling is crucial. If you don’t, you might burn your fingers and struggle with peeling.
• Boldly overlook seasoning: Always taste your vinaigrette before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the salad.
• Boldly forget about toasted walnuts: Toasting walnuts brings out their flavor. Don’t skip this step; keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
• Boldly ignore presentation: The visual appeal of your salad matters! Layering ingredients beautifully adds to its attractiveness when served.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best freshness.

Freezing Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in the beets and feta.

Reheating Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and warm gently for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, stirring gently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prepare beets for this salad?

Roast the beets until tender, then let them cool before slicing. This enhances their flavor and makes them easier to peel.

Can I substitute other nuts in this Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe?

Yes! You can use pecans or almonds if you prefer, but walnuts add a unique flavor that complements the beets well.

How can I customize this Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe?

Feel free to add other ingredients like arugula, goat cheese, or different herbs for added flavor and texture.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or side dishes throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that makes it perfect as a side dish or light meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various nuts or greens according to your taste preferences. Try it today and enjoy a fresh, vibrant addition to your dining table!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Discover the vibrant flavors of our Beetroot Feta Walnut Salad Recipe, a delightful combination of roasted beets, crunchy walnuts, and creamy feta cheese. This salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings, family dinners, or a refreshing lunch. The earthy sweetness of beets pairs harmoniously with the tangy feta and rich walnuts, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to complement grilled meats or stand alone as a light main course, this salad is sure to impress at any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds red beets
• ¾ cup walnut halves
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 3 ounces crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400ºF (204ºC).
2. Wrap each beet in foil and roast on the upper-middle rack for about 1–2 hours until tender.
3. On a baking sheet, toast walnuts on the lower-middle rack for 8–12 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cool the beets for about 15 minutes before peeling and slicing into quarters.
5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
6. Add beet slices to the vinaigrette and toss to coat.
7. Mix in half the walnuts, feta, and parsley; season as needed.
8. Serve topped with remaining walnuts, feta, and parsley.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg