Bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors, this Mediterranean Diet Beet Salad with Feta Cheese is a delightful celebration of wholesome ingredients and refreshing textures. Roasted beets form the earthy base of this dish, paired with a tangy citrus dressing made from fresh orange and lemon juice that perfectly complements their natural sweetness. Creamy crumbled feta cheese adds rich indulgence, while toasted walnuts provide satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil tie each bite together, making this salad as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect as a light side dish or a stunning centerpiece, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired culinary experience. Optimize your meals with simple prep, bold flavors, and crave-worthy ingredients!
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Trim the beet tops, leaving about 1 inch of stem. Wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt.
Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil, ensuring they are well-sealed.
Place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
While the beets are roasting, prepare the dressing by zesting the orange and squeezing its juice into a small bowl. Add the juice of half a lemon, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until combined.
Toast the walnuts in a small dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Once the beets are cooked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. When they are cool enough to handle, peel the skins off by rubbing them gently with your hands or using a paper towel.
Cut the peeled beets into bite-sized wedges or cubes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the beet pieces and pour the citrus dressing over them. Toss gently to coat.
Crumble the feta cheese and add it to the salad along with the toasted walnuts and chopped fresh parsley.
Toss everything together lightly and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter and serve immediately, or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Calories |
957 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.1 g | 90% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.6 g | 98% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 17.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 89 mg | 30% | |
| Sodium | 3000 mg | 130% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 63.4 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.4 g | 59% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.0 g | ||
| Protein | 26.5 g | 53% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 677 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 5.8 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 1753 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.