There’s something about the earthy, tangy, and creamy flavors of a Pickled Beets and Goat Cheese Salad that makes it a staple in my kitchen.
This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its deep red beets and bright goat cheese crumbles but also a nutrient-packed, light meal that feels indulgent.
The sweetness of the beets combined with the tangy goat cheese is a perfect pairing, and the pickling process adds an exciting sharpness to every bite.
What’s more, this salad is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a quick lunch, it requires minimal effort. Its growing popularity is thanks to its versatility—you can swap in different greens or add nuts for extra crunch.
Plus, beets offer heart health benefits and help lower blood pressure. This salad is not only delicious but also good for you!
Why I Love This Recipe
- The sweet-tangy combo: The contrast of the sweet, earthy beets with the creamy goat cheese keeps me coming back. It’s like a flavor explosion in every bite!
- Easy meal prep: I often pickle the beets ahead of time, and then it’s just a matter of tossing everything together when I’m short on time.
- Heart-healthy beets: Beets are packed with nitrates, which are great for lowering blood pressure. This salad makes me feel good about eating well!
- Customizable: I’ve thrown in walnuts, pecans, or even pistachios for a little crunch, and the result is always amazing. Feel free to experiment!
- It’s visually stunning: Let’s be real — food that looks this good is half the fun.
Pickled Beets and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet for toasting walnuts
- Small bowl for dressing
- Large salad bowl
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup pickled beets, sliced or diced
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled or sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare pickled beets, drain if store-bought.
- Toast walnuts in a skillet until fragrant, then let them cool.
- Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper for dressing.
- Place mixed greens in a salad bowl.
- Add pickled beets to greens and gently toss.
- Sprinkle goat cheese over the salad.
- Drizzle dressing over the top.
- Sprinkle toasted walnuts as garnish.
- Toss gently to coat with dressing.
Nutrition
Substitutions And Variations!
Feel free to personalize your salad to suit your preferences. Here are some creative ideas for variations:
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon to make it a heartier meal.
- Leafy Greens: Experiment with different types of greens, such as kale or watercress, to change the texture and flavor profile.
- Additional Veggies: Enhance the salad with other veggies like roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumber slices.
- Fruit Accent: Fresh orange segments or berries can add a burst of sweetness and color.
- Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or mint over the salad for a fragrant touch.
What To Serve With Pickled Beets and Goat Cheese Salad?
