Beetroot, Orange, and Avocado Salad with Toasted Pistachios
This vibrant and flavorful salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot with the juicy tartness of oranges and the creamy richness of avocado. Toasted pistachios add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor, while fresh parsley brings a pop of herbaceousness to balance out the dish. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish.
The origins of this salad can be traced back to the markets of the Middle East, where vendors would combine seasonal produce to create colorful and flavorful dishes. Beetroot, oranges, and avocados were all readily available in these markets, and their combination proved to be a winning one. Over time, this salad spread throughout the region and beyond, becoming a staple of many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Today, it is enjoyed by people all over the world as a healthy and delicious way to celebrate the bounty of the harvest.
Beetroot, Orange, and Avocado Salad with Toasted Pistachios Beetroot, Orange, and Avocado Salad with Toasted Pistachios Beetroot, Orange, and Avocado Salad with Toasted Pistachios Beetroot, Orange, and Avocado Salad with Toasted Pistachios
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 large beetroot, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 orange, peeled and segmented
  • 1 avocado, peeled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup toasted pistachios
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss beetroot cubes with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread beetroot on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. Allow beetroot to cool slightly.
  5. Arrange orange segments, avocado slices, and toasted pistachios on a serving platter.
  6. Top with roasted beetroot.
  7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  8. Serve immediately.
Why It Works
  • The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the beetroot, giving it a sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
  • The orange segments add a burst of juicy tartness that balances out the sweetness of the beetroot.
  • The creamy avocado provides a rich and satisfying texture that complements the other ingredients.
  • The toasted pistachios add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that adds complexity to the dish.
  • The fresh parsley brings a pop of herbaceousness that brightens up the salad and adds a touch of freshness.