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Beet and Orange Salad is a stunning dish that highlights the natural sweetness of roasted beets and the bright juiciness of fresh oranges. The contrast of flavors—earthy, sweet, and tangy—makes this salad a true crowd-pleaser.
Whether served as a refreshing side dish or a light meal, this salad is simple to prepare yet sophisticated enough for special occasions.
If you’re looking for a salad that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, this Beet and Orange Salad is the perfect choice. It’s a go-to dish for holiday meals, dinner parties, or even a healthy weekday lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally Sweet & Savory: The combination of roasted beets and citrus creates a perfect balance.
- Nutrient-Packed: High in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together in just a few steps.
- Customizable: Add nuts, cheese, or greens to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a light appetizer, side dish, or even a main course with added protein.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Salad:
- Beets: Roasted until tender, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Oranges: Fresh, juicy segments add a bright contrast to the earthy beets.
- Greens (Optional): Arugula or baby spinach add freshness and balance.
- Nuts (Walnuts or Almonds): Provide a satisfying crunch and richness.
- Cheese (Feta or Goat Cheese): A creamy element that enhances the flavors.
For the Vinaigrette:
- Olive Oil: The base of the dressing, adding richness.
- Orange Juice: Enhances the citrus notes and adds a natural sweetness.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Brings a slight tang to balance the flavors.
- Honey (Optional): Rounds out the vinaigrette with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring everything together.
How to Make Beet and Orange Salad
Step 1: Roast the Beets
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wrap the beets in foil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 40–50 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Let cool, then peel and slice into rounds or wedges.
Step 2: Prepare the Oranges
- Peel the oranges and separate the segments.
- Remove any seeds and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Arrange the sliced beets and orange segments on a serving plate.
- Scatter the nuts and cheese over the top.
- Drizzle with the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Pro Tip Before Cooking
For even roasting, wrap beets individually in foil and place them on a baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly while retaining moisture.
Beet and Orange Salad
Roasted beets and juicy oranges tossed in a zesty vinaigrette with nuts and cheese for a fresh, flavorful salad.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 3 medium beets, roasted, peeled, and sliced
- 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or sliced almonds (toasted for extra crunch)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 2 cups arugula or baby spinach (optional)
For the Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Roast, peel and slice the beets.
- Peel and segment the oranges.
- Whisk together vinaigrette ingredients.
- Arrange beets and oranges on a plate.
- Top with nuts, cheese, and dressing.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- Save Time: Buy pre-cooked beets to skip roasting.
- Make It Vegan: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Add Extra Protein: Top with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
- Use Different Nuts: Try pistachios or pecans for a different crunch.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
6Amount Per Serving: Calories: 180Total Fat: 10gCarbohydrates: 16gFiber: 4gProtein: 4g
Pro Tip After Cooking
For an extra layer of flavor, let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to fully absorb into the ingredients.
Additional Pairing Ideas
Want to make this salad a full meal? Try pairing it with:
- Grilled Salmon or Chicken: Complements the citrus and beets beautifully.
- Quinoa or Farro: Add grains to make it a hearty grain salad.
- Warm Bread: Serve with a side of crusty sourdough or baguette for a satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Roast and slice the beets, and store them separately from the oranges and dressing. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
How do I keep my hands from staining when handling beets?
Wear gloves or rub your hands with lemon juice after handling beets to remove stains easily.
Can I use canned or pre-cooked beets?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked beets save time and work just as well in this salad.
Wrapping It All Up
This Beet and Orange Salad is the perfect mix of sweet, earthy, and tangy flavors, making it a standout dish for any meal. With minimal effort and wholesome ingredients, it’s a delicious, nutrient-rich option that’s great as a side or a light main course.
Whether you’re making it for a special gathering or a quick weeknight meal, this salad is sure to impress.
Serve it chilled with a glass of white wine or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread for a refreshing and satisfying bite!
