A Burst of Color and Flavor: The Perfect Beet Salad

There’s something truly satisfying about a salad that combines sweetness, crunch, and creaminess in every bite. The Beet Salad with Goat Cheese, Candied Walnuts, and Maple Dressing does just that, offering a vibrant mix of flavors and textures that’s sure to delight your taste buds and elevate any meal. This isn’t just any salad—it’s a beautiful symphony of colors and tastes that’s as enjoyable to look at as it is to eat.

Beets, often underrated, are the stars of this dish. Their earthy sweetness complements the creamy tang of goat cheese perfectly, while the crunch of candied walnuts adds just the right amount of indulgence. Plus, there’s a reason to love beets beyond their taste: they’re packed with nutrients like fiber, folate, and vitamins A and C, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet. Roasting the beets brings out their natural sugars, turning them tender and adding a hint of caramelized flavor, which balances well with the other ingredients.

The maple dressing, made with pure maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard, brings a touch of sweetness and acidity that brightens up the whole salad. It’s simple yet sophisticated—a reminder that the best dressings often come from the pantry staples we already have on hand. This dressing coats the mixed greens and complements the beets without overpowering their natural flavor. Every drizzle adds a luscious sheen, making each bite even more delightful.

The combination of textures makes this salad truly stand out. The candied walnuts add a layer of crunch and a rich, caramelized flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the goat cheese and the tenderness of the roasted beets. And if you’re looking for an extra hint of freshness, a sprinkle of red onion or some fresh herbs can add that bright, sharp note that ties everything together.

Whether you’re serving this beet salad as a light meal or as an elegant side dish, it’s bound to impress. It’s perfect for entertaining guests, adding a splash of color to your table, or simply treating yourself to something special. The mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, along with the variety of textures, makes this salad a true delight that never feels boring. Try pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it alongside your favorite main course for a memorable dining experience.

Want to recreate this dish? Find the full recipe for Beet Salad with Goat Cheese, Candied Walnuts, and Maple Dressing and enjoy this nutritious, flavorful masterpiece at your next gathering.

Beet Salad with Goat Cheese, Candied Walnuts, and Maple Dressing

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• Author: The Kilted Chef
• Yield: Serves 4

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Salad:

• 4 medium beets, roasted and peeled
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup candied walnuts (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby greens)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)

For the Maple Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

 

 

 

 

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Instructions

Prepare the Beets:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and roast for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Allow the beets to cool slightly, then peel and slice them into wedges or cubes.

Make the Maple Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens with a small amount of the maple dressing to lightly coat them.
2. Arrange the dressed greens on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Top with sliced or cubed roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, candied walnuts, and red onion (if using).
4. Drizzle with additional maple dressing to taste.
5. Serve the salad immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving. Toss gently before serving if it has been chilled.

 

Notes

Tips:

To make candied walnuts at home: Toast walnut halves in a skillet over medium heat, then toss with a mixture of 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon butter until coated and caramelized. Allow to cool before using.

For extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or basil on top.