Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that’s both delicious and healthy? Do you crave vibrant colors and exciting flavors on your plate? Then look no further! This Beet and Feta Salad is the perfect recipe for you. It's incredibly easy to make, packed with nutrients, and boasts a stunning combination of earthy beets and salty feta cheese. It's the kind of homemade cooking that will impress your friends and family, and leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for adding to your collection of best recipes.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized beets, cooked and peeled (about 1 cup diced) Tip: Roasting beets brings out their natural sweetness. See our tips below for easy roasting!
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup orange segments (about 1 small orange)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beets: If using raw beets, you can roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Alternatively, you can boil them until tender (about 30-40 minutes). Once cooked, let them cool slightly, then peel and dice them.
- Toast the Walnuts: Spread walnuts on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, gently combine the diced beets, crumbled feta cheese, toasted walnuts, and orange segments.
- Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Beets:
- Roasting vs. Boiling: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of beets, while boiling retains more of their nutrients. Choose your preferred method!
- Easy Peeling: After cooking, let the beets cool completely before peeling. The skins will slip off much easier.
- Preventing Bleeding: If you're concerned about the beets bleeding into the salad, add them to the bowl just before serving.
Variations:
- Add Greens: Enhance your salad with baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
- Other Cheeses: Goat cheese or blue cheese would also be delicious substitutes for feta.
- Different Nuts: Pecans or almonds could be used instead of walnuts.
- Citrus Twist: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-5g
This Beet and Feta Salad is a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or a vibrant side dish. Its beautiful colors and fresh flavors make it a standout among easy recipes, offering a delicious and nutritious addition to your weekly meal plan. Enjoy!