Welcome to our food blog! Today, we’re sharing a refreshing and nutritious recipe – Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad. This vibrant salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy addition to any meal. Combining the earthy sweetness of beetroot with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese, this salad is both delicious and visually appealing.

What is Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad?

Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad is a simple yet flavorful salad that combines roasted or boiled beets with crumbled feta cheese, fresh greens, and a zesty dressing. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a delightful addition to your meal repertoire.

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Nutrient-rich: Beetroots are packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber.
Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of beets pairs beautifully with the tangy feta cheese.
Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.

Versatile: Can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or light main course.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors make this salad a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Ingredients Needed to Make Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad

4 medium beetroots, roasted or boiled

100g feta cheese, crumbled
4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions to Make Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad

Prepare the beetroots: Wash and scrub the beetroots. You can either roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes or boil them until tender, approximately 30-40 minutes. Let them cool, then peel and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, beetroot pieces, and red onion slices.
Add the feta cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted walnuts over the salad.
Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

What Goes Well With Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad

Grilled Chicken: Adds protein and complements the flavors of the salad.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious dressing.

Quinoa: Makes the salad more filling and adds extra nutrients.
Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Orange Slices: Provide a refreshing citrus contrast.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad

Choose Fresh Beets: Fresh beets have the best flavor and texture.
Balance the Dressing: Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Toast the Nuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch.

Use Fresh Greens: Fresh, crisp greens make a big difference in the salad’s texture and taste.
Serve Immediately: This salad is best served fresh to enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add a burst of flavor.

Variations of Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad

Add Grains: Incorporate cooked quinoa, farro, or barley for added texture and nutrients.
Different Nuts: Use pecans, almonds, or pine nuts instead of walnuts.
Extra Veggies: Add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for more variety.

Vegan Version: Substitute feta cheese with vegan cheese or tofu.
Different Dressings: Try a citrus vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt-based dressing.

Storing Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad: Best Practices

Separate Components: Store the dressing separately from the salad to keep the greens fresh.

Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Add Dressing Before Serving: Dress the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Freshen Up: Refresh the salad with a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

How can I make Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad healthier?

To make Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad healthier, consider the following tips:

Use less feta cheese: Reduce the amount of feta cheese or use a lower-fat version to cut down on calories and saturated fat.

Add more greens: Increase the proportion of mixed greens to add more fiber and nutrients.
Incorporate additional vegetables: Add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or carrots for extra vitamins and minerals.
Opt for a lighter dressing: Use a light vinaigrette or simply drizzle with lemon juice and a small amount of olive oil to reduce fat content.

Include whole grains: Add a portion of cooked quinoa, farro, or barley to boost the fiber and protein content.
Choose unsalted nuts: Use unsalted walnuts or other nuts to lower sodium intake.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 250

Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 5g

Sugars: 11g
Protein: 7g

FAQs

How do I roast beetroots for Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad?

To roast beetroots, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the beetroots, then wrap them individually in aluminum foil. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes or until tender. Let them cool, peel, and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Can I use canned beets for Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad?

Yes, you can use canned beets for convenience. Simply drain and rinse the canned beets, then cut them into bite-sized pieces before adding them to the salad. Keep in mind that fresh or roasted beets have a richer flavor and better texture.

What type of feta cheese is best for Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad?

Greek feta cheese made from sheep’s milk is the best choice for this salad due to its creamy texture and tangy flavor. However, you can use any type of feta cheese available to you, including cow’s milk feta or even flavored varieties for a unique twist.

How can I make the dressing for Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad sweeter?

To make the dressing sweeter, you can add an extra teaspoon of honey or a splash of maple syrup. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your preference, ensuring it balances well with the tanginess of the vinegar and lemon juice.

Final Words

Beetroot and Feta Cheese Salad is a vibrant, nutritious, and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a light main course, this salad is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the beautiful presentation. Happy cooking!

Other Yummy Recipes: