If you’re searching for a vibrant and delicious way to enjoy beets, this Beetroot Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with earthy roasted beets, creamy feta, and a bright splash of lemon or vinegar, this salad is a perfect balance of bold flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired dish to brighten your weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleaser for a special occasion, this recipe is endlessly versatile and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Beetroot Salad Recipe shines because of its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating layers of flavor and texture, from the sweetness of the roasted beets to the tangy punch of lemon juice or vinegar.

3 medium beets (roasted, peeled, and diced): The star ingredient that provides beautiful color and a naturally sweet, earthy base.
1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced): Adds a subtle bite and crunch to contrast the softness of the beets.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Brings a creamy, salty note that balances the sweetness perfectly.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Offers bright herbal freshness for a lively finish.
2 tablespoons toasted walnuts (optional): Introduce a wonderful nuttiness and crunch if you like extra texture.
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Provides richness and helps marry all the flavors smoothly.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or red wine vinegar: Imparts a vibrant acidity that lifts the entire salad.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the beets.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth.

How to Make Beetroot Salad Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Beets

If your beets aren’t already roasted, start by wrapping each one individually in foil and roasting them at 400°F for 45 to 60 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Roasting concentrates their natural sugars and softens their texture, creating that luscious base for the salad. Once cooled, simply peel off the skin — wearing gloves helps avoid staining your hands — and dice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together your diced beets and thinly sliced red onion. This ensures that the crunchy, sharp onion is distributed evenly for every forkful, giving the salad a beautiful balance between sweet and tangy.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice (or red wine vinegar if you prefer), salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing is the magic touch that elevates the beetroot salad recipe, bringing brightness and a silky texture that complements the earthiness of the beets.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Pour the dressing evenly over the beet and onion mixture, gently tossing to coat everything completely without breaking the beets. Careful tossing means each bite is perfectly flavored and deliciously moist without being soggy.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Top your salad with crumbled feta cheese, freshly chopped parsley, and toasted walnuts if you’re including them. The feta adds creaminess and salt, the parsley freshens it up, and the walnuts deliver a satisfying crunch to round out the textures beautifully.

How to Serve Beetroot Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper on top before serving to add a pop of color and extra flavor. A drizzle of good quality olive oil right before plating can also enhance the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This beetroot salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish if you want a well-rounded meal, or alongside some warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing. It’s also fantastic with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning appetizer, serve the beetroot salad recipe layered in small glasses or stacked in a ring mold on a plate. You can also offer it as a vibrant topping for crostini or as a side in a picnic spread, where its vivid color will surely draw admiring glances.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Beetroot salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen and mingle more over time, though it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days to maintain the freshness of the parsley and feta.

Freezing

Because of the fresh herbs and cheese, freezing this Beetroot Salad Recipe is not recommended. The texture and flavors might become compromised once thawed, especially the delicate feta and parsley.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature to enjoy the crisp, fresh textures. If you prefer, allow it to sit out for 15 minutes before serving but avoid any direct reheating as it will affect the feta and fresh ingredients negatively.

FAQs

Can I use canned beets for this recipe?

Yes, canned beets can be a convenient shortcut, but they tend to be softer and sometimes less flavorful than freshly roasted beets, which really bring depth to the salad.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese is a great substitute if you want a similar tangy creaminess, while a crumbly blue cheese could add a bolder flavor, though it will change the salad’s profile.

Is this Beetroot Salad Recipe suitable for vegans?

As written, this salad contains feta cheese, but you can easily make it vegan by leaving out the cheese or replacing it with a plant-based alternative.

How do I prevent beet stains on my hands?

Wearing kitchen gloves while peeling and handling cooked beets is the best way to avoid staining. If you don’t have gloves, rubbing your hands with lemon juice or vinegar afterward can help remove stains.

Can I add other greens or ingredients?

Absolutely! Adding arugula gives a nice peppery bite, and some diced avocado or orange segments can provide extra creaminess or sweetness, respectively, making your beetroot salad recipe even more exciting.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Beetroot Salad Recipe a try soon—it’s one of those dishes that never fails to wow with its color, balance, and simplicity. Perfect for all sorts of occasions, it welcomes creativity and personal tweaks while staying effortlessly delicious. Once you taste the harmony of roasted beets, tangy feta, and fresh herbs, you’ll understand why it’s a salad that keeps everyone asking for seconds!