Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) beets, various colours if available, scrubbed
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
  • ½ cup (50g) walnut halves or pieces
  • ¼ cup (60ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 5 ounces (140g) mixed greens, such as baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix
  • 4 ounces (115g) goat cheese, crumbled (feta is also great) (omit for vegan)
  • Optional: red onion slivers, chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Wrap beets in foil, or place on baking sheet and roast until tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. Place foil wrapped package on baking sheet, and roast in oven for 45 mins.
  3. While beets are roasting, spread walnuts on a separate baking sheet and toast in the oven for the last 5 minutes of beets cooking time, or until fragrant. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  4. Once beets are cool enough to handle, peel them (gloves recommended to avoid staining your hands). Cut into wedges or cubes.
  5. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey. Simmer over medium heat until reduced by half and slightly thickened.
  6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, roasted beets, toasted walnuts, and goat cheese (if using).
  7. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. Toss gently to combine. Garnish with red onion slivers or chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.