Description
A vibrant and nutritious Roasted Beet and Kale Salad combining tender oven-roasted beets with fresh kale, dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a wholesome side or light main dish with a balance of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups roughly chopped kale
- 2 medium beets
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup roughly chopped walnuts
- 2 ounces goat cheese
Dressing
- ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat while preparing the beets for roasting.
- Prepare and roast the beets: Trim the tops off the beets leaving 1 to 2 inches of stem, then gently wash them. Place the beets in a small Dutch oven or casserole dish with a lid, cover, and bake for 1 hour until tender and easily pierced with a fork. Allow to cool until safe to handle.
- Peel and slice the beets: Remove the remaining stem completely. Under running water, use your fingers or a paper towel to gently rub off the beet skins. Slice the peeled beets into smaller pieces suitable for salad.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale, sliced roasted beets, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and goat cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss gently to combine all flavors.
- Serve: Transfer the tossed salad to a serving bowl. Optionally, garnish with an extra sprinkle of goat cheese or additional chopped walnuts before serving for an enhanced presentation and texture.
Notes
- The homemade balsamic vinaigrette adds an exceptional tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the roasted beets perfectly.
- Wearing gloves while peeling beets can prevent staining your hands.
- Roasting beets with their skins on helps retain nutrients and moisture.
- Feel free to toast the walnuts lightly to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 259 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 229 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 7 mg
