Roasted Beet Salad with Whipped Feta and Crunchy Pistachios

Roasted Beet Salad with Whipped Feta and Crunchy Pistachios

This vibrant and nutrient-packed salad features roasted beets paired with the creamy tang of whipped feta cheese and the satisfying crunch of pistachios. It’s a perfect side dish or light main meal, bursting with flavor and health benefits. This vibrant salad combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, the creamy tang of whipped feta, and the crunch of pistachios. Perfect as a light appetizer or a nutritious side dish, it’s both visually stunning and packed with flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes  

Total Time: 15 minutes plus beet roasting time if needed  

Servings: 4 servings  

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Beets:

4 medium-sized beets, trimmed

2 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Whipped Feta:

1 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat preferred)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 clove garlic (optional, minced for added flavor)

Toppings:

1/3 cup pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped

Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

1 tbsp honey or balsamic glaze (optional)

Dressing:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp honey (optional)

Pinch of salt and pepper

Instructions:

Roast the Beets:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Wash and scrub the beets. Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast for 45–60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.

Let cool, then peel off the skins (use gloves to avoid staining your hands) and slice into wedges or rounds.

Prepare the Whipped Feta:

In a food processor or blender, combine feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic (if using).

Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a splash of water or olive oil to adjust the consistency.

Transfer to a serving dish and spread evenly.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad:

Arrange the roasted beet slices on top of the whipped feta.

Drizzle with the dressing.

Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top.

Garnish with fresh dill or parsley and a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze (if desired).

Serve:

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before serving for enhanced flavors.

Notes and Tips:

Roasting Shortcut: Use pre-cooked vacuum-sealed beets to save time. However, fresh roasted beets have a deeper flavor.

Feta Substitute: Use goat cheese for a milder flavor or vegan feta for a plant-based version.

Nut Alternative: Swap pistachios for walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.

Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of orange zest or a few pomegranate arils for a pop of freshness and color.

Benefits

Beets:

High in antioxidants, particularly betalains, which reduce inflammation.

Support heart health by improving blood pressure and circulation.

Rich in fiber for digestive health.

Feta Cheese:

A good source of calcium and protein.

Contains probiotics for gut health.

Pistachios:

Packed with healthy fats and antioxidants.

Provide protein and dietary fiber.

Olive Oil:

A heart-healthy fat rich in monounsaturated fatty acids.

Contains antioxidants that combat inflammation.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the beets and prepare the whipped feta a day in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep it fresh.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the whipped feta separate if possible.

Can I add greens to this salad?

Absolutely! Arugula or spinach pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Substitute the feta with a plant-based alternative and the yogurt with a vegan option for a vegan-friendly version.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the earthy and tangy flavors.

Nutritional Info: (Per Serving)

Calories: 230

Protein: 8g

Fat: 17g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Carbohydrates: 15g

Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 9g

Sodium: 420mg

Cholesterol: 30mg