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Beet and Orange Salad

A vibrant, nutrient-packed salad combining earthy roasted beets with sweet oranges, tangy feta, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a simple balsamic dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium beets red, golden, or a mix
  • 2 large oranges navel, blood orange, or mandarin
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled, or goat cheese, optional
  • 1/4 cup walnuts chopped, or pecans
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • fresh mint or parsley for garnish
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp reserved orange juice optional

Equipment

  • oven
  • baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • sharp knife
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • serving platter

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the beets thoroughly and trim off the stems, leaving about an inch to prevent bleeding.
  3. Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes, depending on their size. A knife should slide easily into the beets when they're done.
  4. While the beets roast, use a sharp knife to slice off the top and bottom of the oranges, then carefully cut away the peel and pith. Hold the orange over a bowl to catch any juices, then slice into rounds or segment by cutting between the membranes.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Add a tablespoon of reserved orange juice if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Let the roasted beets cool slightly, then peel the skins off with a paper towel or your fingers. Slice into wedges or rounds.
  7. Arrange the roasted beet slices and orange segments on a serving platter. Scatter the thinly sliced red onion over the top.
  8. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts.
  9. Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad and garnish with fresh mint or parsley before serving.

Notes

For best results, keep dressing separate if making ahead and assemble just before serving. Can be made vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey and omitting cheese. Store components separately in refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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