Roasted Beet Goat Cheese Salad (Printable version)

Earthy roasted beets paired with creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a bright balsamic drizzle.

# List of ingredients:

→ Beets

01 - 4 medium beets, trimmed and scrubbed
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Salad Base

05 - 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, baby kale)
06 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

→ Cheese & Nuts

07 - 3.5 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
08 - 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped

→ Dressing

09 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
11 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
12 - 1 teaspoon honey
13 - Salt and pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Set oven temperature to 400°F.
02 - Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and arrange on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 to 50 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.
03 - Allow beets to cool slightly, then remove skins by rubbing with paper towels. Cut into wedges or bite-sized pieces.
04 - Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified.
05 - Combine mixed greens and sliced red onion in a large bowl. Add half of the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
06 - Spread dressed greens on a serving platter. Top with roasted beet pieces, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted walnuts.
07 - Drizzle remaining dressing over the assembled salad just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This salad feels like a little secret, combining sweet and tangy in a way that always surprises guests.
  • The balance of creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts keeps every bite exciting and comforting.
02 -
  • Roasting beets in foil is the key to tender, flavorful pieces—don’t skip this step or you’ll lose that signature sweetness.
  • Let the beets cool enough to handle before peeling to avoid burnt fingers and make peeling effortless.
03 -
  • Don’t rush the roasting—slow and steady brings out the natural sweetness in beets that defines this salad.
  • Use a mix of salad greens to add complexity in texture and flavor that elevates the dish.