Chopped Beet Salad: A Cozy Delight for Any Occasion
There’s something so heartwarming about creating a dish that echoes the changing seasons, and this Chopped Beet Salad does just that. One bite of the tender beets, crisp arugula, and creamy feta, and I’m instantly transported to sunny picnics in the park, where laughter dances through the air, and the sun kisses our skin. As autumn’s colors begin to paint our world in rich reds and warm yellows, this easy weeknight dinner is perfect for celebrating the bounty of the harvest.
Gatherings with friends and family around the kitchen table are a cherished tradition in my home. This salad not only serves as a vibrant centerpiece but also boasts incredible flavors that bring everyone together. Plus, it’s simple and quick to whip up, making it the ideal choice for those busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet and Earthy Flavor: The natural sweetness of roasted beets beautifully complements the peppery notes of arugula and creamy feta, making every bite a delightful experience.
Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in no time, making it perfect for those looking for fast, healthy recipes after a long day.
Nutty Crunch: The addition of chopped walnuts gives the dish a perfect crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft textures.
Nutrient-Packed: Full of vitamins and minerals, this salad makes for a nourishing addition to any meal, ensuring you’re getting wholesome goodness.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Chopped Beet Salad is great for making ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It also keeps well in the fridge, making it a fabulous option for lunch!
Gather These Simple Ingredients
To create this cozy, colorful Chopped Beet Salad, you’ll need:
- 3 medium beets, cooked and diced
- 1 cup arugula or spinach
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Make It Together
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and diced beets, arugula, feta cheese, walnuts, and red onion. The colors blend so beautifully, it feels like a work of art!
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. The bright, zesty aroma of fresh lemon juice is invigorating!
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring every morsel is coated in that delicious dressing.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving. The flavors will deepen if you choose to let it rest, making it even more delightful.
Delicious Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
Add Citrus: Toss in segments of orange or grapefruit for a zesty, refreshing bite that brings a nice sweetness to the table.
Swap the Greens: If arugula isn’t your thing, try using kale or romaine for a different texture and flavor!
Incorporate Fruits: Diced apples or pears add a juicy crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy beets.
Change Up the Nuts: Swap out walnuts for pecans or pistachios for a different nutty flavor that enhances the salad’s charm.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Make Ahead Magic: Chopped Beet Salad can be prepared a day in advance. Letting it sit will allow the flavors to marry beautifully, resulting in a more robust taste.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the beets will continue to bleed into the other ingredients!
Cooking Beets: If you’re short on time, look for pre-cooked beets in the store. They can save you valuable prep time without sacrificing flavor!
Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients when possible, as they make the salad that much more delicious.
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 17g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 190mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Just let it chill in the fridge, and it’ll taste even better the next day.Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite greens, nuts, or extra toppings like avocado or roasted bell peppers.How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days.How long does it last?
Chopped Beet Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.
Wrapping It Up
This Chopped Beet Salad balances earthy sweetness with crisp greens, making it a delightful addition to any table. It not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table with loved ones or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
Save this Chopped Beet Salad to your cozy recipes board so it’s ready when you need a comforting and nourishing meal!
Print
Chopped Beet Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A colorful and nourishing salad featuring roasted beets, arugula, feta, and walnuts, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 medium beets, cooked and diced
- 1 cup arugula or spinach
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked and diced beets, arugula, feta cheese, walnuts, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add citrus segments, swap greens, or try different nuts for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: beet salad, healthy salad, vegetarian recipe, quick salad, meal prep