Fresh Beet and Leafy Salad

This vibrant and refreshing salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for a light meal or side dish. Featuring a mix of leafy greens, this dish incorporates the earthy sweetness of boiled beets, the creamy tang of feta cheese, and the unique crunchy texture of walnuts. Dressed with a tangy lemon and olive oil vinaigrette, this salad is simple yet satisfying. The contrast between the vivid red beets and green leaves makes for a visually appealing plate, sure to impress at any meal. It's a great option for vegetarians and can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. With its quick preparation time, this salad is an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or dinner. Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits of fresh ingredients in every bite. It's not only nutritious but also a feast for the senses, making it a go-to recipe for those who love fresh produce. Treat yourself and your guests to a burst of freshness with this delightful salad, sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

100 g mixed leafy greens
100 g boiled beets
50 g feta cheese
15 g walnuts
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Leafy Greens: Wash the mixed leafy greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Once clean, pat them dry with a towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
Plate the Greens: Arrange the dried leafy greens evenly on a large serving plate or a salad bowl. This forms the base of your salad.
Slice the Beets: Take the boiled beets and slice them into thin, even pieces. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for precision.
Add Beets to Greens: Place the sliced beets carefully over the leafy greens, ensuring even distribution throughout the salad.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. This simple dressing will enhance the flavors without overwhelming them.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice mixture evenly over the salad, ensuring all the ingredients get a touch of the dressing.
Chop the Walnuts: Roughly chop the walnuts with a knife, being careful not to crush them too finely.
Add Walnuts and Cheese: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the salad for a delightful crunch. Follow this with crumbled feta cheese, distributing it evenly across the top.
Final Touches: If desired, add a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, which will enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
Serve Immediately: This salad is best served fresh. Prepare just before serving to maintain the crispness of the greens and the full flavor profile.

Tips

For extra flavor, roast the walnuts for a few minutes to enhance their natural oils and aroma.
Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture.
Add a teaspoon of honey to the dressing for a hint of sweetness.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 7g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 18g

Variations

Replace walnuts with almonds or pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Include chopped cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for additional texture and freshness.
For a vegan version, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese option.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be paired with grilled chicken or fish as a main course.
Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the dressing.
Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.

Best Places

Pure Green - Known for its organic and health-focused menu. Location: 123 Green Lane, New York City, USA
Leafy Delights - Offers a variety of salads and vegan options. Location: 45 Veggie Ave, Toronto, Canada
Garden Fresh Café - A great spot for fresh and flavorful salads. Location: 78 Leafy Road, Melbourne, Australia
Salat Kings - Specializes in creative and gourmet salads. Location: 9 King Street, London, UK
The Green Spot - Famous for its refreshing salad selections. Location: 42 Nature Drive, Dublin, Ireland
Vegan Paradise - Offers plant-based meals with fresh ingredients. Location: 101 Orchid Blvd, Singapore
Healthy Bites - Features a wide range of nutrition-focused dishes. Location: 55 Wellness Way, San Francisco, USA
Fresh Bar - Popular for its seasonal and fresh produce menu. Location: 67 River Lane, Cape Town, South Africa
Salad Station - Offers an extensive salad bar with exotic options. Location: 34 Market Street, Auckland, New Zealand
The Herb Garden - A cozy spot offering organic and farm-to-table dishes. Location: 22 Flower Avenue, Paris, France