Beet and Apple Salad

This vibrant beet and apple salad combines an array of flavors and textures into a delightful side dish or appetizer. The natural sweetness of the beets and apples pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the horseradish and lemon juice, creating a refreshing and distinctive taste profile. The creamy dressing made with sour cream perfectly ties the ingredients together, providing a rich and smooth finish. This salad is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious, offering a good dose of vitamins and minerals. It's quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. Perfect for any season, it can be served chilled or at room temperature. Whether you're looking to impress guests with a visually stunning dish or simply want to enjoy a healthy yet indulgent salad, this recipe has got you covered. It's especially great for those who appreciate the earthiness of beets balanced with fruity apple notes. Give this unique combination a try and add a burst of color and flavor to your dining table!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Boiled beets - 2 medium
• Apples - 2 medium, grated
• Sour cream - 3 tablespoons

Spices and Sauces

• Salt - to taste
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Horseradish - 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon

Preparation Time

Total time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by boiling the beets until they are tender. This typically takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on their size. Once cooked, allow them to cool before handling.
2. While the beets are cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Grate the apples using a medium grater. You can peel the apples first, but it's optional based on your preference for texture.
3. Once the beets are cool enough to handle, grate them using the same grater size as the apples. This ensures uniformity in texture within the salad.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated beets and apples. Toss gently to ensure they are well mixed.
5. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture. It's best to start with a little, as you can always adjust the seasoning later if needed.
6. Sprinkle in the sugar to balance out the flavors of the beets and apples. Stir to integrate the sugar evenly.
7. Add the horseradish to the bowl. This will give the salad a nice kick and complement the sweetness of the fruit.
8. Pour the lemon juice over the mixture. The acidity from the lemon enhances all the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.
9. Finally, fold in the sour cream. This will create a creamy consistency that binds the ingredients together.
10. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, sugar, or lemon juice as desired.
11. Once satisfied with the taste, cover the bowl and chill the salad for at least 10 minutes before serving.
12. Chilling the salad allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more harmonious taste.
13. This step is optional but recommended for optimal flavor development.
14. Before serving, give the salad one last stir. Ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the creamy dressing.
15. Transfer the salad to a serving dish, and for a decorative touch, you can garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill.
16. This beet and apple salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
17. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as part of a vegetarian spread.
18. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days, though it's best enjoyed fresh.
19. The salad may release some juices as it sits, but simply give it a stir before serving.
20. Enjoy the bright flavors and beautiful colors of this delicious salad!

Tips

• For a different texture, dice the beets and apples instead of grating them.
• If you like more zing, add additional horseradish to taste.
• Creamy Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter salad.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar.

Nutrition

Estimated per serving: 120 calories, 2g protein, 5g fats, 18g carbs

Variations

• Use goat cheese instead of sour cream for a tangier flavor.
• Add walnuts or pecans for some added crunch and protein.
• Try using spiced apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with freshly baked bread or rolls for a complete meal.
• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced and nutritious dinner.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.

Best Places

• The Salad Bar - Offers a diverse range of fresh salads. Location: 123 Green St, New York, USA.
• Beetroot Delight Café - Known for innovative use of beets in cuisine. Location: 456 Red Lane, London, UK.
• Apple Love Bistro - Famous for apple-themed dishes. Location: 789 Orchard Rd, Melbourne, Australia.
• Vibrant Veggie - A popular spot for plant-based dishes. Location: 321 Healthy Way, Vancouver, Canada.
• Fresh Harvest Depot - Enjoy farm-to-table freshness. Location: 654 Farm Ln, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Nordic Salad Haven - Offers Scandinavian-inspired salads. Location: 987 Fjord Rd, Oslo, Norway.
• Sunny Side Greens - Perfect for light and flavorful meals. Location: 223 Sunshine Ave, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Wholesome Bites - A focus on nutritious and delicious fare. Location: 867 Cook St, Toronto, Canada.
• Earthy Eats Café - Known for organic and earth-friendly dishes. Location: 349 Soil Rd, Dublin, Ireland.
• Salad Innovations - Renowned for creative salad recipes. Location: 678 Healthy Dr, Singapore, Singapore.