Baked Beetroot and Feta Salad
Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking
Discover a vibrant and nutritious Baked Beetroot and Feta Salad that combines earthy flavors with creamy feta cheese, perfect for a light meal or side dish.
This Baked Beetroot and Feta Salad is a delightful combination of roasted beets and creamy feta cheese, drizzled with a zesty dressing. It's a perfect addition to any meal!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Vibrant colors that brighten up your plate
- Earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot
- Creamy feta adds a delicious tang
- Nutritious and packed with flavor
The Health Benefits of Beetroot
Beetroot is not just a colorful addition to your plate; it's a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in vitamins and minerals, beetroot is packed with folate, manganese, and potassium, which are essential for maintaining good health. The antioxidants found in beetroot help combat oxidative stress, protecting your cells from damage.
Additionally, beetroot is known for its ability to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. This is largely due to its high nitrate content, which converts to nitric oxide in the body, helping to relax and dilate blood vessels. Including beetroot in your diet can contribute to overall cardiovascular health.
Pairing Suggestions
This Baked Beetroot and Feta Salad pairs beautifully with various dishes, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced dinner, or enjoy it as a light lunch with a slice of whole-grain bread. The flavors complement each other wonderfully, enhancing your dining experience.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding quinoa or couscous to the salad. These grains provide additional protein and fiber, making the dish even more filling and nutritious. The nutty flavor of quinoa or couscous will harmonize well with the earthy beetroot and tangy feta.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
If you're preparing this salad ahead of time, it's best to store the components separately. Keep the roasted beetroot and feta cheese in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, the salad greens won't wilt, ensuring everything stays fresh until you're ready to enjoy it.
The salad can be made up to two days in advance. Just dress it right before serving to maintain its vibrant colors and textures. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping, allowing you to have a nutritious and flavorful dish ready to go whenever you need it.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized beetroots, peeled and diced
- 150g feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy the freshness of this salad with your favorite dressing!
Instructions
Prepare the Beetroots
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Wrap the diced beetroots in aluminum foil and roast them in the oven for about 45 minutes until tender.
Assemble the Salad
Once the beetroots have cooled, place the mixed salad greens in a large bowl. Add the roasted beetroots, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
Dress the Salad
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve
Serve the salad immediately, or chill in the fridge for a refreshing side dish.
This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the salad.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Beetroot
To achieve the best flavor and texture, ensure that your beetroots are of similar size before roasting. This will help them cook evenly, resulting in tender, delicious bites. You can also experiment with different varieties of beetroot, such as golden or candy-striped beetroot, for added visual appeal and flavor.
If you're short on time, you can microwave the diced beetroots in a covered dish with a little water for about 10 minutes. This quick cooking method will soften them up before roasting, reducing the overall cooking time.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences. Add some sliced avocado for creaminess or toss in some roasted carrots or sweet potatoes for added sweetness. You can also include fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an extra burst of flavor.
For a twist on the dressing, try incorporating honey or Dijon mustard into the vinaigrette. This will add a hint of sweetness and complexity, elevating the overall taste of the salad. Explore different nuts like pecans or almonds for a unique crunch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
Yes, canned beets can be used for convenience. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the salad.
→ How long will the salad last in the fridge?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
→ Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
→ What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish to any main course.
Baked Beetroot and Feta Salad
Discover a vibrant and nutritious Baked Beetroot and Feta Salad that combines earthy flavors with creamy feta cheese, perfect for a light meal or side dish.
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized beetroots, peeled and diced
- 150g feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Wrap the diced beetroots in aluminum foil and roast them in the oven for about 45 minutes until tender.
Once the beetroots have cooled, place the mixed salad greens in a large bowl. Add the roasted beetroots, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve the salad immediately, or chill in the fridge for a refreshing side dish.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the salad.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g