Radicchio and Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
This salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, with the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, the slightly bitter tang of radicchio, the creamy richness of goat cheese, and the nutty crunch of walnuts. It's a perfect way to celebrate the vibrant colors and flavors of autumn.
The origins of this salad can be traced back to the 16th century, when Italian peasants would gather wild radicchio and beets from the fields and roast them over an open fire. The addition of goat cheese and walnuts is a more recent innovation, but it's one that has become an essential part of the dish. This salad is a reminder of the simple, yet delicious, food that has been enjoyed by Italians for centuries.
Radicchio and Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese Radicchio and Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese Radicchio and Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese Radicchio and Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 bunch radicchio, leaves separated
  • 1 bunch beets, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Combine beets with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat.
  3. Spread beets on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
  4. While beets are roasting, separate leaves of radicchio and arrange on a serving platter.
  5. Once beets are roasted, add them to the platter with goat cheese and walnuts.
  6. Drizzle with any leftover roasting juices and add additional ground black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve and enjoy.
Why It Works
  • The roasting process intensifies the natural sweetness of the beets, while the balsamic vinegar adds a touch of acidity to balance out the flavors.
  • The radicchio provides a slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweetness of the beets, while the goat cheese adds a creamy richness that ties everything together.
  • The walnuts add a nutty crunch that provides a satisfying textural contrast to the soft beets and radicchio.
  • The combination of flavors and textures in this salad is simply irresistible.