Looking to elevate your salad game? Dive into the vibrant world of flavors with our Beet and Goat Cheese Arugula Salad! This delightful dish combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, the creamy tang of goat cheese, and the peppery bite of fresh arugula, all drizzled with a luscious balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or an impressive side at your next dinner party, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious powerhouse. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups arugula
- 2 medium beets, roasted and sliced
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the beets thoroughly and wrap each individually in aluminum foil.
- Place the foil-wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until they can be easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the beets.
- Remove the beets from the oven and let them cool completely. Once cooled, use gloves or paper towels to peel the skin off the beets.
- Slice the roasted beets into thin, uniform rounds or half-moons, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- In a small skillet, toast the walnuts over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Wash and dry the arugula leaves, ensuring they are crisp and free from moisture.
- Arrange the arugula leaves on a large serving platter or individual plates as a base.
- Artfully place the sliced beets on top of the arugula.
- Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese evenly over the beets and arugula.
- Scatter the toasted walnuts across the salad for added crunch.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, ensuring even distribution.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Roasting Beets: For the best flavor, choose fresh, firm beets. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, so don’t skip this step! If you're short on time, you can often find pre-cooked beets at the grocery store.
- Goat Cheese Alternatives: If you're not a fan of goat cheese, feta or blue cheese can make excellent substitutes, adding their unique flavors to the salad.
- Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Keep an eye on them while toasting, as they can burn quickly!
- Serving Suggestion: This salad is best served at room temperature. If you prepare it in advance, add the dressing just before serving to keep the arugula crisp.
- Add Some Color: Feel free to get creative! Add sliced apples or pears for a sweet crunch, or toss in some pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
