Roasted Beet and Orange Salad

Name: Roasted Beet and Orange Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized beets; 2 large oranges, peeled and sliced; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating vibrant salads that are not only delicious but also visually stunning. This Roasted Beet and Orange Salad is one of my favorites, combining the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the bright, citrusy zing of fresh oranges. It's the perfect accompaniment to any meal, providing a refreshing contrast that lifts the palate. This salad is not just about flavor; it’s a celebration of colors and textures that make healthy eating feel incredibly indulgent. Trust me, once you make this dish, it will earn a regular spot on your table.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:07:17.078Z

When creating this salad, I was looking for a way to balance the sweetness of beets with something bright and fresh. The combination of roasted beets and oranges came to mind, and it completely transformed my perception of salads. I love how roasting the beets deepens their flavor, making them both tender and flavorful, while the oranges add that perfect splash of acidity.

To enhance this dish even further, I added a sprinkle of feta cheese for some creaminess. As a tip, make sure to let the roasted beets cool before slicing them to maintain their shape. This salad is an explosion of flavors, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

        What You'll Love About This Salad
        Colorful presentation that brightens any table
Sweet and savory balance with a refreshing citrus twist
Nutritious ingredients packed with vitamins and minerals

      

Perfecting the Roasting Process

When roasting beets, the goal is to achieve a tender yet slightly firm texture. Wrapping the beets in aluminum foil allows them to steam in their natural juices, enhancing their sweet flavor. If you're unsure about the roasting time, start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark. A skewer or fork should easily pierce the beets without them being mushy. Over-roasting can lead to a drier texture, so keep a close eye around the end of the cooking time.

Choosing the right beets can elevate this salad even further. Look for firm, smooth-skinned beets that feel heavy for their size. If available, try to select a mix of golden and red beets; not only does this introduce varied coloring to the dish, but the flavor profile can also differ slightly—with golden beets often being milder and sweeter, complementing the robust red ones.

The Role of Citrus and Cheese

The oranges in this salad serve a dual purpose: they add a refreshing burst of juice while balancing the earthy notes of the roasted beets. I recommend using Navel oranges for their sweetness and ease of peeling. If you prefer a tangier profile, consider substituting with blood oranges for an interesting color contrast and a hint of berry-like flavor that complements the earthiness of the beets beautifully.

Feta cheese not only adds creaminess but also a salty bite that rounds out the salad’s taste. If you're looking for a lower-fat alternative, goat cheese is an excellent substitute, offering a similar tang while remaining rich and creamy. I've found that crumbling the feta just before serving prevents it from clumping together, ensuring you get a bit of cheese in every bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Roasted Beet and Orange Salad.

Salad Ingredients

4 medium-sized beets
2 large oranges, peeled and sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
2 cups mixed salad greens
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients ready, you’ll soon be enjoying a delicious and wholesome salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Roasted Beet and Orange Salad.

Roast the Beets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Remove from the oven and let them cool.

Prepare the Oranges

While the beets are roasting, peel and slice the oranges. Set them aside to let their juices gather.

Assemble the Salad

Once the beets have cooled, peel them and slice them into wedges. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced beets, orange slices, feta cheese, and walnuts.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Enjoy this vibrant dish immediately!

This salad is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time for a quick assembly.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or mint. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese, if you prefer a tangier taste.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The components can last up to 3 days, although the beets may lose some of their vibrancy. To keep the salad from becoming soggy, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.

To revitalize the salad on day two, consider tossing in a handful of extra greens to refresh the texture and color. If the oranges have released too much juice, feel free to drain it off to maintain a balanced salad that isn’t overly wet.

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Beet and Orange Salad makes an excellent side dish for grilled or roasted meats. The brightness of the citrus cuts through richer proteins, making it a perfect pairing for dishes like rosemary chicken or savory pork tenderloin. For a satisfying vegetarian option, serve it alongside a grain-based dish like quinoa or farro.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding a protein such as chickpeas or grilled shrimp right on top of your salad. This not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds a lovely texture contrast, making each bite of the salad a delightful experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the beets and prepare the oranges in advance, but it's best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ Are there any substitutes for feta cheese?

Absolutely! You can use goat cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll be good for up to 2 days, but the greens may wilt.

→ Can I use canned beets instead?

While fresh roasted beets provide the best flavor, you can use canned beets if you're short on time. Just drain and slice them before adding to the salad.