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Fresh Beet and Goat Cheese Salad with Toasted Walnuts

fresh beet and goat cheese salad - featured image

A fresh and healthy salad featuring roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy toasted walnuts, dressed with a simple olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for any occasion, this salad balances sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors with vibrant greens.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium fresh red beets, washed and trimmed
  • 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
  • 3/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped and toasted
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
  • 4 cups fresh arugula or mixed greens
  • Salt to taste (preferably flaky sea salt)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Wrap each beet individually in foil and place on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-50 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. While beets roast, toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Once beets are cool enough to handle, rub skins off with hands or a paper towel. Slice beets into thin rounds or wedges.
  5. In a large bowl, combine beet slices, arugula or mixed greens, and half of the toasted walnuts. Drizzle with dressing and gently toss to coat evenly.
  6. Arrange salad on serving plates or a large bowl. Crumble goat cheese over the top and sprinkle with remaining toasted walnuts.
  7. Add a few twists of fresh black pepper and a light pinch of flaky sea salt on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Roast beets ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days to save time. Toast walnuts carefully to avoid burning. Peel beets after roasting for best texture. Dress salad just before serving to keep greens fresh. Substitute goat cheese with cashew cheese for dairy-free or feta for a different flavor. Walnuts can be swapped with pecans or pistachios.

Nutrition

Keywords: beet salad, goat cheese salad, walnut salad, healthy salad, roasted beets, easy salad recipe, vegetarian salad, gluten-free salad