Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe

If you’re looking for a salad that feels both fresh and hearty, this Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe is a game-changer. I absolutely love how the earthy sweetness of roasted beets pairs with the bright, juicy bursts of orange—it’s like a flavor party in your mouth! Plus, the creamy feta and crunchy walnuts add just the right amount of texture and tang, making every bite satisfying and memorable.

This salad works perfectly as a light lunch, a stunning side dish for dinner, or even at your next gathering when you want something that looks as good as it tastes. When I first tried this combo, I was amazed at how simple ingredients come together to create such an elegant dish you’ll want to make again and again. I promise, once you try this Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe, it might just become one of your favorite go-to salads too.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing fresh, quality ingredients really makes this Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe shine. Roasting your own beets is a must for that deep flavor, and picking sweet, juicy oranges will take this salad to another level.

• Beets: Go for fresh, firm beets—red, golden, or a mix all work great for vibrant color and taste.
• Oranges: Navel, blood orange, or mandarin each adds its own juicy sweetness and zing.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds creamy saltiness, but you can substitute goat cheese if you prefer a milder tang.
• Walnuts: Toasted walnuts bring a lovely crunch and a subtle bitterness that balances the salad.
• Red onion: Thinly sliced for a little sharpness and color contrast.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Use a good quality one for rich, fruity flavor in the dressing.
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds tang and sweetness; red wine vinegar is an excellent alternative.
• Honey: I like a touch of honey to round out acidity—but maple syrup works perfectly if you want vegan.
• Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing depth and a gentle kick.
• Salt and black pepper: To season and bring everything to life.
• Fresh mint or parsley: Bright herbs to garnish and freshen every bite.

Variations

I love playing with this salad depending on the season or what’s in my fridge. You can easily personalize it to make it your own—and I encourage you to experiment, too. Here are some of my favorite twists that never fail to keep this Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe fresh and exciting.

• Swap the nuts: I’ve swapped walnuts for pecans when I want a slightly sweeter crunch, and it’s delicious every time.
• Go vegan: Skip the feta and use vegan cheese or extra avocado slices to keep the creamy element without dairy.
• Add greens: On busy days, tossing a handful of arugula or spinach in makes it a fuller meal with extra texture.
• Use different citrus: Sometimes I mix in grapefruit or pomegranate seeds for extra vibrant flavor and color.

How to Make Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Beets to Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, wash the beets thoroughly and trim off the stems, leaving about an inch to prevent the color from bleeding during roasting—this little trick keeps the beets vibrant.

Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 45-60 minutes depending on size—you’ll know they’re ready when a skewer slides in easily without resistance. Once done, let them cool enough to handle before peeling the skins off with a paper towel or your fingers; this method is quicker and less messy than peeling with a knife.

Step 2: Prepare the Oranges and Dressing

Slice off the top and bottom of the oranges, then carefully cut away the peel and pith. Holding the orange over a bowl (to catch those flavorful juices), slice into rounds or segment it by cutting between the membranes. That juice will come in handy for the dressing!

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. If you saved some of the orange juice, add a tablespoon to the dressing—it brightens everything up beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble and Dress Your Salad

On a serving platter, arrange the roasted beet slices and orange segments in an appealing pattern. Scatter the thinly sliced red onion over the top for a sharp bite, then sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts to add creaminess and crunch.

Finally, drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. I like to add fresh mint or parsley as a garnish for a bright pop of color and freshness that ties all the flavors together.

How to Serve Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish this salad with fresh mint leaves because they add a refreshing coolness that enhances all the other flavors. Sometimes, I swap those for chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely chopped chives when I want a more herbaceous note—either way, it just brightens the presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light, healthy meal. It’s also fantastic alongside crusty bread and a cheese platter, especially when you’re entertaining and want a dish that’s colorful and fresh without a lot of fuss.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I love creating a stacked salad tower by layering beet slices, orange segments, and feta in a ring mold—adding the walnuts and herbs on top as a pretty finishing touch. It makes for a beautiful centerpiece that’s super easy to assemble and will definitely wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend adding the dressing just before serving if you plan to make it a bit ahead—to keep the walnuts crunchy and the greens fresh if you added any.

Freezing

I don’t freeze this salad because the fresh citrus and walnuts don’t freeze well and can lose their texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated for optimal flavor and crunch.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served fresh or chilled. If you want warm beets, you can gently reheat the roasted beet slices before assembling, but keep the oranges, cheese, and walnuts cool to preserve their texture and brightness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Beet and Orange Salad with Feta and Walnuts Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites, and I’m confident you’ll enjoy it as much as I do. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight but has that special touch to impress anyone at your table. Give it a go—you might just find it’s your new go-to salad when you want something fresh, vibrant, and a little unexpected.

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