Beetroot Salad with Plums and Walnuts

This vibrant Beetroot Salad with Plums and Walnuts is a delightful combination of sweetness, earthiness, and a hint of spice. The earthy flavor of freshly grated beetroot pairs beautifully with the sweetness of dried plums and the crunch of walnuts. Sour cream dressing infused with garlic, salt, and pepper adds a creamy tanginess to the salad that complements the other ingredients perfectly. The colorful layers are as appealing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds, making this a great addition to any meal. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice. Preparing it is straightforward, making it an excellent option for both casual meals and special occasions. The use of simple and easily available ingredients ensures that this salad can be made without much hassle. Overall, this salad is a delicious symphony of flavors and textures that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500 g red beets
• 200 g carrots
• 200 g dried plums
• 100 g walnuts
• 300 g sour cream

Spices

• Salt
• Pepper
• 3 cloves garlic

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Plums: Start by soaking the dried plums in boiling water. After 20 minutes, drain the water and finely chop the plums into small pieces. This softens them and releases their natural sweetness.

2. Chop the Walnuts: Roughly chop the walnuts into small pieces. This can be done by hand or using a food processor. Walnuts add a lovely crunch to the salad, and their flavor complements the other ingredients.

3. Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine the sour cream with a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of pepper, and finely minced garlic cloves. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. This will be the creamy dressing that ties the salad together.

4. Grate the Vegetables: Using a grater, shred the red beets and carrots. Divide the grated beets into two portions, as they will be layered in the salad.

5. Assemble the Salad: Take a large serving dish and begin layering the ingredients. Start with a thin layer of grated beets, followed by a layer of grated carrots. Next, add a layer of chopped plums. Repeat with another layer of grated beets.

6. Add the Dressing: Spoon the sour cream dressing over the top layer. Ensure it is spread evenly to cover the entire salad surface.

7. Finish with Walnuts: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts generously over the salad. They will provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

8. Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.

Enjoy as a nutritious and delicious cold starter or side dish. It's perfect with grilled meats or as part of a larger banquet.

Tips

• Substitute Walnuts: If you're allergic to walnuts or prefer a different nut, try using slivered almonds or pecans for a different texture and flavor.
• Make it Vegan: Replace sour cream with coconut yogurt or cashew cream to make the salad vegan.
• More Texture: Add a layer of cooked quinoa for extra protein and texture.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 15g (mainly from walnuts)
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Add chopped apples for additional sweetness and crunch.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: Grilled chicken or fish to complement the sweetness and creaminess.
• Garnish with: Freshly chopped parsley or dill for extra color and flavor.

Best Places

1. Beetlover's Bistro - A trendy cafe known for its creative beetroot dishes. Location: 123 Healthy St, New York, USA.
2. The Nutty Chef - Famous for its nut-infused salads and dishes. Location: 456 Walnut Ave, London, UK.
3. Riga Roots - A cozy restaurant offering traditional Latvian cuisine with a modern twist. Location: 789 Old Town Rd, Riga, Latvia.
4. Green Gourmet - An eco-friendly eatery serving fresh and vibrant salads. Location: 101 Fresh Way, Sydney, Australia.
5. Vegan Vibes - Popular among vegans for its plant-based menu options. Location: 202 Veggie Lane, Berlin, Germany.
6. Earth’s Bounty - Celebrated for its organic and locally-sourced ingredients. Location: 303 Organic Blvd, Vancouver, Canada.
7. Bistro Bleu - Offers an exquisite selection of salads and fine wines. Location: 404 Delicacy St, Paris, France.
8. Sunshine Eats - A bustling spot known for its sunny ambience and healthy menu. Location: 505 Farmer’s Market Rd, Los Angeles, USA.
9. Vitality Cafe - Ideal for health enthusiasts, offering a range of nutritious meals. Location: 606 Lifestyle Ave, Cape Town, South Africa.
10. The Happy Herbivore - A vegan-friendly cafe with a focus on hearty salads. Location: 707 Green Path, Dublin, Ireland.