South African Beet and Onion Salad
Vibrant, zesty, and brimming with earthy charm, this South African Beet and Onion Salad is a delightful fusion of tender, sweet beets and crisp red onions, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Infused with the bold flavors of white vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of sugar, this colorful dish is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory. Quick to prepare and ideal for chilling, it’s a refreshing side perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a vibrant addition to your dinner table. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color. This traditional South African recipe not only celebrates wholesome ingredients but also provides a nutritious, flavor-packed dish ready to impress your guests. Serve it cold, and let the flavors sing!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 medium fresh beets
- 1 large red onion
- 120 ml white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Do not peel them yet.
Place the beets in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 40-50 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
While the beets are cooking, peel the red onion and slice it thinly into half-moons. Set aside.
Once the beets are cooked, drain them and allow them to cool enough to handle. Using your hands or a paper towel, gently rub off the skins. Trim the tops and bottoms of the beets as needed.
Slice the beets into thin rounds or matchsticks, depending on your preference.
In a small bowl, whisk together the white vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beets and sliced onions. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve chilled as a side dish or appetizer.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
600 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.3 g | 38% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.3 g | 22% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2793 mg | 121% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 74.8 g | 27% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.8 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 51.8 g | ||
| Protein | 10.4 g | 21% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 133 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 5.0 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 2081 mg | 44% | |
*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.
