Roasted Beet & Citrus Salad with Feta Crumble & Honey
Description
This salad is a beautiful balance of earthy roasted beets, bright citrus, creamy feta, and a drizzle of sweet honey. It’s perfect as a light lunch, elegant starter, or a colorful side dish. The natural sweetness of the beets pairs perfectly with the tangy citrus and salty cheese.
⏱️ Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Roasting Time: 35–40 minutes
Assembly Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For Roasted Beets:
4 medium beets (red or golden), peeled & cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper (to taste)
For Salad:
2 oranges (peeled & sliced or segmented)
1 grapefruit (optional, for extra tang)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
¼ cup walnuts or almonds (toasted)
For Honey Dressing:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Roast the Beets
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss beet cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking tray in a single layer.
Roast for 35–40 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
Let cool slightly.
2. Prepare Citrus
Peel oranges and grapefruit.
Slice into rounds or segments, removing seeds.
3. Make Honey Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper.
Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
4. Assemble the Salad
Arrange mixed greens on a serving platter.
Add roasted beets and citrus slices.
Sprinkle crumbled feta and toasted nuts.
Drizzle honey dressing evenly on top.
5. Serve
Serve immediately, slightly warm or chilled.
Tips for Best Results
Roast beets in foil for extra softness.
Use golden beets to avoid staining.
Add fresh herbs like mint or parsley for brightness.
Lightly toast nuts for better flavor.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the beets and prepare dressing ahead. Assemble just before serving for freshness.
2. What can I use instead of feta?
You can substitute with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even paneer for a milder taste.
3. Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely—just skip feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep dressing separate if possible.
5. What protein can I add?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa work great for making it a full meal.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 220–260 kcal
Protein: 6–8 g
Carbohydrates: 20–25 g
Fats: 12–15 g