Mediterranean Roasted Beet and Walnut Salad
Elevate your dining experience with this vibrant Mediterranean Roasted Beet and Walnut Salad. This simple yet sophisticated dish combines earthy roasted beets with crunchy walnuts and a zesty dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar. It's perfect as a side dish or a light main meal, and delivers a burst of color and flavor to any table. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a nourishing everyday salad, this recipe celebrates the freshness of Greek cuisine.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
beets
1 lb (about 1/2 kg, boiled and peeled)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (extra virgin preferred)
red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons (for dressing)
walnuts
1/3 cup (chopped)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling the beets in a large pot of water, keeping their skins on, for about 30 to 40 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, remove the beets from the water and let them cool until manageable. Peel the skin off using your hands or a paper towel, as this can get messy.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
3
Slice the peeled beets into thick rounds or cubes, depending on your presentation preference.
4
Arrange the sliced or cubed beets on a serving platter or in a deep bowl, then drizzle the prepared dressing over the beets evenly.
5
Finally, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor. Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a short while for the flavors to enhance.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mediterranean Roasted Beet and Walnut Salad?
It is a vibrant Greek-inspired salad that combines earthy boiled and peeled beets with crunchy walnuts and a zesty dressing of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and garlic.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Is this beet salad vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is tagged as vegetarian and follows the Mediterranean diet.
How long should I boil the beets?
The beets should be boiled for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Should I peel the beets before boiling them?
No, you should boil the beets with their skins on. The skin is removed after they have cooked and cooled.
What is the best way to peel boiled beets?
Once the beets are cool enough to handle, you can use your hands or a paper towel to rub the skin off easily.
What ingredients are in the salad dressing?
The dressing is a whisked mixture of extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic.
How should the beets be cut for presentation?
You can slice the peeled beets into thick rounds or cubes, depending on your personal preference.
What kind of nuts are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of chopped walnuts for added crunch and nutty flavor.
What type of vinegar is recommended for the dressing?
Red wine vinegar is recommended to provide the characteristic zesty flavor of Mediterranean cuisine.
Can I serve this salad immediately?
Yes, you can serve it immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for a short while to allow the flavors to enhance.
How much garlic is needed for this salad?
The recipe requires one minced garlic clove.
What is the total weight of beets required?
You will need 1 lb (about 1/2 kg) of beets.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Vegetable dish.
Is this salad considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy salad and part of the Mediterranean diet, focusing on fresh ingredients and healthy fats.
Can I use this recipe as a side dish?
Absolutely, it is perfect as a side dish or can even be served as a light main meal.
How do I ensure the dressing is well combined?
Whisk the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic in a separate bowl until the mixture is uniform.
Should the walnuts be raw or chopped?
The recipe specifies that the walnuts should be chopped before being sprinkled on top.
Is it better to use extra virgin olive oil?
Yes, extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its superior flavor in raw dressings like this one.
How many ingredients are in this recipe in total?
There are 5 main ingredients: beets, olive oil, red wine vinegar, walnuts, and garlic.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include greek salad, beet salad, vegetarian, mediterranean diet, healthy salad, side dish, and easy recipe.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, you can whisk it together and set it aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the beets.
What is the first step in making this salad?
The first step is to boil the beets in a large pot of water until they are fork-tender.
Does the recipe include any sugar?
No, based on the provided ingredients, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
Is the recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe because it involves simple boiling, whisking, and assembly.
How should I arrange the salad for serving?
Arrange the beets on a serving platter or in a deep bowl, drizzle with dressing, and finally sprinkle with walnuts.
What texture can I expect from this salad?
The salad offers a contrast between the tender, earthy beets and the crunchy, nutty walnuts.
Is the garlic raw in this recipe?
Yes, the garlic is minced and added raw to the dressing for a zesty, pungent kick.
How do you check if the beets are cooked?
They are ready when they are fork-tender after boiling for 30 to 40 minutes.
Is this dish suitable for gatherings?
Yes, it is described as an ideal dish for sharing at gatherings due to its vibrant color and sophisticated presentation.