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Pickled Beets and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 12 reviews
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Total Time: 13 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and tangy salad combining the earthy sweetness of pickled beets with creamy goat cheese, crunchy toasted walnuts, and fresh mixed greens, all brought together with a simple balsamic vinaigrette dressing. This quick and easy salad is perfect as a light lunch or an elegant side dish, ready in just 13 minutes.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 cup pickled beets, sliced or diced
  • 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled or sliced
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped

Dressing

  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Beets: If using store-bought pickled beets, drain the liquid well to avoid soggy salad.
  2. Toast Walnuts: Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast walnuts until fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning, then transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined and emulsified.
  4. Assemble Salad Base: Place mixed greens in a large salad bowl to serve as the base of your salad.
  5. Add Pickled Beets: Scatter the drained pickled beets evenly over the mixed greens then gently toss to combine without bruising the leaves.
  6. Add Goat Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled or sliced goat cheese evenly on top of the salad for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
  7. Dress Salad: Drizzle the prepared balsamic vinaigrette dressing evenly over the salad ingredients to coat flavors.
  8. Garnish with Walnuts: Sprinkle the toasted and chopped walnuts on top to add a crunchy contrast.
  9. Final Toss: Gently toss the entire salad once more to ensure the dressing evenly coats all ingredients just before serving.

Notes

  • For a nuttier flavor, consider using toasted pecans or almonds as a substitute for walnuts.
  • Honey in the dressing is optional and can be omitted to keep the salad more tangy and less sweet.
  • This salad can be served as a light main dish or as a side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
  • Use freshly toasted walnuts for best texture; pre-toasted nuts can lose the crispness.
  • If you prefer a vegan option, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative.

Find it online: https://cookedbylina.com/pickled-beets-and-goat-cheese-salad-recipe/