Roasted Beets and Arugula Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe

Introduction

This roasted beet and arugula salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or a fresh side. The sweetness of the beets pairs beautifully with peppery arugula and tangy feta, while walnuts add a satisfying crunch.

A white bowl filled with a fresh salad showing three main layers: the bottom layer is bright green arugula leaves. On top of that are deep red roasted beet chunks, glossy with a light coating of dressing. The top layer consists of scattered white crumbly cheese pieces and chopped walnuts, adding texture and contrast to the colors. The salad is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 3 medium beets, roasted
  • 4 cups arugula, washed
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Step 2: Wrap the beets individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. Step 3: Remove the beets from the oven and let them cool. Once cool, peel off the skins and slice the beets into wedges or rounds.
  4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the arugula, roasted beets, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
  5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well blended.
  6. Step 6: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  7. Step 7: Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

  • For extra sweetness, add a handful of dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds.
  • Swap walnuts for toasted pecans or almonds for a different crunch.
  • Use baby spinach instead of arugula for a milder green.
  • If short on time, you can use pre-cooked or canned beets, but roasting enhances flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain freshness. Leftovers are best served cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a round white plate on a white marbled surface. The plate holds a salad with several visible layers: the bottom layer consists of dark red beet slices arranged in a ring along the edge, the middle layer is a bed of fresh green arugula leaves with a mix of light green herb pieces evenly spread on top, and scattered pecans add a rich brown color both on the salad and around the plate. Nearby, there is a glass jar with dressing that has a creamy light brown color. A woman’s hand is holding a fork poised to eat from the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I roast beets ahead of time?

Yes, roasted beets can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making salad assembly quick and easy.

What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?

You can substitute red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor, though balsamic adds a subtle sweetness that complements the beets well.

Print

Roasted Beets and Arugula Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe

This vibrant roasted beet and arugula salad combines earthy roasted beets with peppery arugula, creamy crumbled feta, and crunchy walnuts. Tossed in a simple olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing, it makes a fresh and flavorful side or light meal.

  • Author: Luna
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Total Time: 60-75 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 3 medium beets, roasted
  • 4 cups arugula, washed
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the beets.
  2. Roast Beets: Wrap the beets individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. Prepare Beets: Remove the roasted beets from the oven and allow them to cool. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and slice the beets into rounds or wedges.
  4. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced roasted beets, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts.
  5. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  6. Toss Salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly without bruising the arugula.
  7. Serve: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste and texture.

Notes

  • You can roast beets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to save time.
  • For added sweetness, consider adding a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
  • If walnuts are unavailable, pecans or toasted pine nuts make a great substitute.
  • This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal.
  • To make peeling easier, rub the skins under cool running water after roasting.

Keywords: roasted beet salad, arugula salad, feta cheese salad, walnut salad, healthy salad, Mediterranean salad, easy side dish

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