Roasted Beet and Orange Salad

Name: Roasted Beet and Orange Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized beets, scrubbed and trimmed; 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented; 3 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice); 1/4 cup toasted walnuts; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love crafting vibrant salads that not only taste incredible but also burst with color. This Roasted Beet and Orange Salad has become a favorite in our home, especially during the cooler months. The earthy sweetness of the roasted beets perfectly complements the citrusy zing of fresh oranges. The best part? It’s a simple yet elegant dish that allows each ingredient to shine while providing a burst of flavor in every bite. It pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and elevates any meal.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:01:23.981Z

As I experimented with various salad combinations, I discovered how well roasted beets and fresh oranges complement each other. The natural sweetness of the beets becomes concentrated during roasting, while the oranges provide a refreshing contrast. I learned that roasting the beets with their skins on helps retain their flavor and nutrients, resulting in a beautiful addition to any salad.

This salad is not just visually appealing; it’s also packed with nutrients. The vibrant colors tell you there's a bounty of vitamins inside. I make it often for gatherings, and it's always a hit. I recommend adding a sprinkle of goat cheese for extra creaminess!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The combination of rich roasted beets and zesty oranges is simply delightful.
A fresh, colorful presentation that makes any meal more inviting.
Health-conscious yet satisfying, it's packed with vitamins and flavor.

      

The Importance of Roasting Beets

Roasting beets transforms their flavor, enhancing their natural sweetness while creating a tender texture. As the beets roast, the high temperature caramelizes their sugars, resulting in a rich, earthy taste that complements the brightness of the oranges. To ensure perfect roasting, choose beets that are similar in size for uniform cooking, resulting in a satisfying bite. Keep an eye on them; the goal is to roast them until they're easily pierced with a fork, usually around 30-40 minutes depending on their size.

For those new to cooking beets, peeling after roasting is key. When the beets are cool enough to handle, the skins should slide off easily. If you prefer a more streamlined process, you can opt for pre-cooked beets, which are widely available—just rinse and slice them before adding to your salad.

Choosing the Right Greens and Oranges

Mixed greens add a refreshing crunch to this salad, balancing the dense texture of roasted beets. I recommend using a mix of arugula and spinach for their peppery and mild flavors. Feel free to experiment with other greens like frisée or baby kale, adjusting the quantities based on your personal preference. Be sure to wash and dry them thoroughly; excess moisture can lead to a soggy salad and dilute the dressing's flavor.

When selecting oranges, look for vibrant, firm ones with a slight give when pressed. Navel oranges are excellent due to their sweetness, but blood oranges add a stunning color contrast and a hint of berry flavor, enhancing the salad's visual appeal. Segment carefully to capture any juices, which can be incorporated into the dressing for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make a flavorful salad:

Ingredients

4 medium-sized beets, scrubbed and trimmed
2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
3 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or your choice)
1/4 cup toasted walnuts
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have these ingredients, you're ready to create a stunning salad!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Roasted Beet and Orange Salad:

Roast the Beets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30 minutes, or until they can be easily pierced with a fork.

Allow to cool, then peel the skins off.

Prepare the Oranges and Greens

While the beets roast, segment the oranges and set them aside. Wash and dry the mixed greens; place them in a large salad bowl.

Assemble the Salad

Once the beets are cooled and peeled, slice them into wedges. Add the beets and orange segments to the bowl with the greens. Sprinkle the toasted walnuts and feta cheese on top.

Dress and Serve

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your colorful and delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the beets in balsamic vinegar before roasting. This will enhance their sweetness and make the salad even more dynamic.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep this salad fresh, store the components separately in airtight containers. The roasted beets can be refrigerated for up to five days, while the mixed greens and oranges should ideally be assembled just before serving to maintain their texture. If you're planning to make this salad in advance for gatherings, consider prepping the individual elements a day ahead—just toss everything together right before you plan to eat.

For a hearty main course, consider serving this salad over grilled chicken or shrimp. The vibrant flavors pair harmoniously with proteins, adding a delightful texture contrast. It also works well as a side to roasted meats, providing a colorful touch to the dinner table.

Creative Variations and Add-Ons

While this salad’s base is already divine, feel free to mix it up! Adding sliced avocado provides creaminess, while pomegranate seeds can enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal with their jewel-like color. For a protein boost, consider tossing in chickpeas or quinoa to create a more filling dish that can serve as lunch or dinner.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor profile, a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as mint or basil can add an aromatic note. Alternatively, incorporating different nuts like pecans or almonds can complement the existing textures and flavors in delightful ways.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the beets in advance and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using avocado or leave it out entirely. You can also use goat cheese as a substitute.

→ How can I add more protein to this salad?

Consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa for a protein boost. They pair well with the flavors of the salad.

→ Is it possible to use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would also work beautifully in this salad.