15-Minute Roasted Beet Salad
This vibrant salad combines earthy roasted beets with peppery baby greens, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy candied nuts. The bright grapefruit vinaigrette adds a citrusy sweetness that perfectly balances the beets' earthiness. Perfect as a light lunch or elegant starter, this colorful dish brings together contrasting flavors and textures. The honey-sweetened dressing can be made ahead and stored for up to two weeks, making this an ideal make-ahead option for entertaining or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grapefruit juice, from about one whole medium-sized grapefruit
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 2 cups baby greens, packedarugula1:1none
more peppery flavor
- 1 cup cooked beets, cut into 1/2 inch cubes, about 3 beets
- 2 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup candied walnuts or pecanstoasted pumpkin seeds1:1nut-freevegantree_nuts-free
different texture but adds crunch
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- 1
Place honey, dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, grapefruit juice, olive oil, and red wine vinegar in a mason jar and shake, or whisk thoroughly in a small bowl
- 2
Place baby greens, cooked beets, goat cheese, candied nuts, and red onion in a large bowl
- 3
Toss salad ingredients with dressing, reserving some if you prefer lightly dressed salads
- 4
Alternatively, divide salad ingredients into individual portions and dress each plate separately
Tips
Reserve some dressing if you prefer your salads lightly dressed - you can always add more.
The grapefruit vinaigrette will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
For best presentation, divide ingredients into individual portions and dress each plate separately.
Good to Know
Store dressed salad covered in refrigerator for up to 2 days. Dressing keeps separately for 2 weeks.
Make vinaigrette up to 2 weeks ahead. Prepare beets and nuts in advance, assemble just before serving.
Serve immediately after dressing to prevent greens from wilting.
Common Mistakes
Don't overdress the greens to avoid wilting
Cut beets uniformly to ensure even distribution and presentation
Substitutions
Vegan Options
different texture but adds crunch
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use raw beets instead of cooked?
Yes, but you'll need to roast them first. Wrap whole beets in foil and roast at 400°F for 45-60 minutes until tender, then peel and cube.
What if I don't have grapefruit juice?
You can substitute with orange juice or lemon juice, though the flavor will be different. Start with less as lemon is more acidic.
How long will the dressed salad keep?
The dressed salad is best eaten immediately but will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though greens may wilt slightly.