Ingredients
For the salad
- 3 medium beets
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- 2 oranges, peeled and cut into segments
- 4 cups mixed greens or lettuce
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Roast the beets: Wash and trim the beets. Wrap each beet in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 35–45 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Cool and peel: Let the beets cool, then peel off the skins. Cut into wedges or slices.
- Prepare the dressing: Whisk olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Build the salad: Add mixed greens to a large bowl. Arrange the roasted beets, avocado, orange segments, and red onion over the greens.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle with walnuts, feta, and fresh herbs.
- Dress: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss gently: Carefully mix so the avocado and orange pieces stay intact. Serve immediately.
Nut Information
Contains nuts: Yes — walnuts.
- Walnuts can be replaced with pecans, almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds.
- For a completely nut-free version, omit the walnuts and use pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- If serving someone with a serious nut allergy, check the labels of feta, mustard, dressings, and packaged seeds for cross-contact warnings.
Quick Q&A
Q: Can I use pre-cooked beets?
Yes. Vacuum-packed or canned beets can save considerable time. Drain and slice before using.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Prepare the beets and dressing up to 2 days ahead. Add avocado and dressing just before serving.
Q: Can I skip the feta?
Absolutely. For a dairy-free salad, simply leave it out.
Q: What can replace orange?
Grapefruit, mandarin oranges, or fresh apple work well.
Q: How do I stop the avocado from browning?
Toss the avocado lightly with a little lemon juice immediately after cutting.
Q: Is this vegetarian?
Yes, if the feta and other packaged ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.