Name: Beetroot Orange Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 3 oranges; 10 oz (300 grams) vacuum-packed roasted beetroot (about 4 beets); ⅓ cup walnuts, toasted; 2 spring onions, finely sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar; ½ teaspoon maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; ⅓ teaspoon ground cumin; ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds (optional); ½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste); ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

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This Beetroot Orange Salad is one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. Imagine the earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot mingling with the bright, juicy flavor of fresh oranges. It’s not just eye-catching; it offers a burst of taste and health benefits in every bite. As you pull together a simple yet satisfying salad, you’ll be impressed by how easily the ingredients come together. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is great for anyone looking to whip up something both delicious and nutritious. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce and impress your friends at your next meal. So, let’s get started on this vibrant and refreshing journey to make a colorful Beetroot Orange Salad that will surely become a favorite!

Why This Recipe Works

Combining the earthy sweetness of beetroot with the bright, juicy flavors of orange creates a vibrant and refreshing salad. The use of roasted beetroot adds depth, while the citrus cumin dressing ties all the elements together, enhancing the flavors beautifully. This recipe’s simplicity allows the ingredients to shine without overwhelming complexity, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Beetroot Orange Salad

This Beetroot Orange Salad isn’t just visually stunning; it’s also packed with health benefits. With vegan ingredients, it’s perfect for health-conscious individuals and those seeking a quick yet nutritious meal. The crunchy walnuts and aromatic herbs provide texture and flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal or a stand-alone dish.

Ingredients

3 oranges
10 oz (300 grams) vacuum-packed roasted beetroot (about 4 beets)
⅓ cup walnuts, toasted
2 spring onions, finely sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
⅓ teaspoon ground cumin
¼ teaspoon cumin seeds (optional)
½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Oranges

To start, peel the oranges carefully, removing skin and pith completely. Slice them into half rounds or segments, being mindful to deseed as you go. A sharp knife will help preserve the integrity of the slices, ensuring a nice presentation.

Slicing the Beetroot

Next, drain the vacuum-packed beetroot and slice them into 1 cm (about 1/3 inch) thick rounds. Incorporate these with the sliced oranges on your serving dish. The colors meld beautifully, setting the stage for an impressive salad.

Arranging the Salad

On a serving plate, alternate overlapping slices of orange and beetroot. This colorful arrangement creates an appealing visual foundation for your salad. The vibrant hues are not only inviting; they entice everyone to enjoy the dish.

Adding Toppings

Now, scatter the toasted walnuts, finely sliced spring onions, and freshly chopped parsley over the arranged salad. These toppings not only add flavor but also contribute delightful textural contrasts that bring the dish to life.

Making the Dressing

For the dressing, grab a jar with a lid and combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, maple syrup or honey, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper. Shake vigorously until the ingredients are well mixed and emulsified. This dressing brings everything together seamlessly.

Dressing the Salad

Once your dressing is ready, pour it evenly over the salad, ensuring that every orange and beet slice gets coated. This step enhances the flavors of the dish, making each bite delightful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Beetroot Orange Salad at room temperature for optimal flavor. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins, complements hearty grain dishes, or stands out as a refreshing side for any meal.

Tips for Success

Use ripe, juicy oranges for the best flavor.
Toast the walnuts just before serving for added crunch.
Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste, especially the sweetness.

Variations

Add feta cheese for a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully.
Mix in arugula or spinach for a leafy boost that adds nutrition.
Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep everything crisp, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve.

Pairing Ideas

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a rich grain bowl. For a vegetarian option, try serving it with quinoa or couscous for a complete meal that’s satisfying and healthy.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh beetroot instead of vacuum-packed?
Yes, definitely! Just roast fresh beetroots until tender before slicing.

2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it can be made ahead, but remember to add the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.

3. What other nuts can I use in this salad?
Consider using pine nuts, hazelnuts, or pecans as alternatives to walnuts.

4. Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten intolerances.

5. How can I enhance the flavor further?
You might add crumbled feta cheese or more herbs like mint for added flavor and freshness.

This vibrant Beetroot Orange Salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a treasure trove of flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Its combination of sweet, tart, and earthy elements makes it a versatile dish – perfect for any occasion. By making this refreshing salad, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious meal but also impress those around you. So go ahead, whip it up and relish every colorful bite!