Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad with Citrus Dressing
Roasted beets bring a sweet and earthy flavor to this vibrant and healthy salad, while the arugula adds a peppery bite. The citrus dressing is light and refreshing, with a subtle sweetness from the honey that balances out the flavors. This salad is a great way to enjoy the flavors of winter produce and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
The inspiration for this recipe came to me on a cold winter day when I was looking for a way to use up some leftover roasted beets. I had a bunch of arugula in the fridge, and I thought that the peppery flavor would be a nice contrast to the sweetness of the beets. I also had some oranges on hand, and I decided to add them to the salad for a bit of brightness. The dressing is a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and salt and pepper. It's light and refreshing, and it helps to bring all of the flavors together.
Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad with Citrus Dressing Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad with Citrus Dressing Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad with Citrus Dressing Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad with Citrus Dressing
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 3 medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges
  • 4 cups arugula
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss the beet wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Roast the beets for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper to make the dressing.
  5. In a large serving bowl, combine the roasted beets, arugula, orange segments, and walnuts.
  6. Drizzle the citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why It Works
  • Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness and caramelizes the edges, giving them a slightly smoky flavor.
  • The arugula adds a peppery bite and a touch of bitterness, which balances out the sweetness of the beets.
  • The orange segments add a bright and juicy flavor, and they also provide a source of vitamin C.
  • The walnuts add a bit of crunch and texture to the salad.
  • The citrus dressing is light and refreshing, and it helps to bring all of the flavors together.