Roasted Beet and Orange Salad

Name: Roasted Beet and Orange Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized beets, roasted and sliced; 2 large oranges, peeled and segmented; 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 cups mixed greens; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Roasted Beet and Orange Salad for its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets perfectly complements the bright, citrusy notes from oranges. As I combine the two, I also add creamy feta and a hint of olive oil, creating a delicious contrast in textures. This salad is not just visually stunning, but it also bursts with flavor, making it an ideal side dish or a light main course.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-07T13:10:10.419Z

When I first attempted this Roasted Beet and Orange Salad, I was amazed by how well the flavors intertwined. The warm roasted beets bring out a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the juicy oranges, making every bite exciting. I recommend using fresh oranges for zestier flavor, and honestly, a squeeze of lemon juice elevates the salad even more.

What I truly love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap feta cheese for goat cheese, or even add nuts for extra crunch. It works wonderfully for lunch, dinner, or any gathering, and showcases how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Vibrant colors that brighten your table
Unique combination of earthy and citrus flavors
Versatile for any occasion, from casual lunch to festive dinner

      

The Key to Perfectly Roasted Beets

Roasting beets is an art that enhances their natural sweetness and earthy flavor. To achieve this, be sure to select beets that are firm and free of soft spots. The wrapping in foil helps retain moisture, resulting in tender beets. Keep an eye on them during roasting; testing for doneness can be done by piercing them with a fork. If it goes in easily, they're done. Letting them cool completely before peeling allows the skins to slip off effortlessly, reducing waste and prep time.

If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked beets available at many grocery stores. This will save you about an hour of prep time, allowing you to whip up this salad in less than 30 minutes. Just dice the beets instead of slicing for a quick assembly. However, roasting the beets yourself allows for a depth of flavor that packaged versions may lack, making it worth the extra effort when time permits.

Choosing and Segmentation of Oranges

The freshness of the oranges contributes significantly to the vibrancy of the salad, so opt for juicy, ripe oranges with a bright, smooth skin. Navel oranges work well for their sweetness, but if you prefer a tart note, consider blood oranges for their unique flavor and color. Ensure to segment the oranges carefully; using a sharp knife, cut along the membranes can make this process more efficient, releasing the juicy segments without any pith. This method not only enhances the visual appeal but also prevents bitterness in each bite.

While oranges provide a bright contrast in flavor, you can also explore using other citrus fruits like grapefruit or tangerines for alternative taste profiles. Keep in mind that different citrus will yield varying levels of sweetness and acidity, which can change the overall flavor balance of the salad. Experimenting with these substitutes can lead to delightful new combinations.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

4 medium-sized beets, roasted and sliced
2 large oranges, peeled and segmented
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 cups mixed greens
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

With the ingredients ready, let's move on to the steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Beet and Orange Salad:

Roast the Beets

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet individually in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender.

Let them cool, then peel and slice.

Prepare the Oranges

While the beets are roasting, peel the oranges, removing all the white pith. Segment the oranges and set aside.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced beets, orange segments, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss gently to combine.

Top with Feta

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Your salad is now ready to serve! Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add toasted nuts or seeds for a crunchy texture. This salad tastes even better if allowed to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted Beet and Orange Salad is incredibly versatile and can serve as a light lunch or an impressive side for a dinner party. To elevate the dish, consider adding toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and additional protein. A sprinkle of fresh herbs such as mint or basil can also enhance the flavors and add further vibrancy.

For a heartier meal, pair the salad with grilled chicken or fish. The citrus notes in the salad complement a wide range of proteins, while the feta adds a creamy richness, offsetting the savory elements beautifully. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, as both options highlight the fresh, bright flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make this salad ahead of time, consider storing the ingredients separately to maintain their freshness. The roasted beets and segmented oranges can be refrigerated in airtight containers for up to three days. Just toss them with the mixed greens, onion, and dressing right before serving to avoid wilting the greens and sogginess from the dressing.

While assembling the salad, remember that avocado or other creamy ingredients can be added just before serving to prevent browning. This salad is an excellent option for meal prep, and you can easily double the recipe to enjoy throughout the week. Just keep the salad dressing separate until you're ready to dig in, ensuring all components stay fresh and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beets and oranges in advance. Just assemble the salad shortly before serving to keep the greens fresh.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.

→ How do I roast beets?

Wrap each beet individually in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes until tender.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be delicious additions.