Roasted Beet Walnut Salad (Print)

Sweet roasted beets paired with crunchy walnuts, creamy goat cheese, and peppery greens finished with tangy dressing.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 medium beets, trimmed and scrubbed
02 - 5 oz arugula

→ Nuts

03 - 1 cup walnut halves
04 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
05 - Pinch of sea salt

→ Cheese

06 - 4 oz fresh goat cheese, crumbled

→ Vinaigrette

07 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
09 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 - 1 teaspoon honey
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Wrap beets individually in foil and roast on a baking sheet for 35 to 40 minutes until fork-tender. Allow to cool slightly, then peel and cut into wedges.
02 - While beets roast, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toast walnuts over medium heat in a skillet until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Sprinkle sugar and a pinch of salt on walnuts, stirring constantly until sugar melts and coats nuts, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer immediately to the baking sheet and separate with a fork. Let cool.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
04 - Arrange arugula on a serving platter. Top with roasted beet wedges, candied walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese.
05 - Drizzle vinaigrette over salad just before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The candied walnuts add a delightful crunch and sweetness that keeps people reaching for more.
  • It's naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, so it works for almost any table without feeling like a compromise.
  • Everything can be prepped ahead except the final assembly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
02 -
  • The one time I skipped the foil and roasted beets uncovered, they dried out and became mealy—wrapping them is non-negotiable.
  • Peeling the beets while they're still warm is the secret that changes everything; wait until they're completely cool and the skin clings stubbornly to the flesh.
03 -
  • Keep a damp towel nearby when peeling beets because they stain your hands temporarily—it's harmless but looks alarming.
  • If your vinaigrette breaks and looks separated, whisk in a tiny splash of water and it'll come back together beautifully.
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