Beet, Avocado & Orange Salad Recipe
This vibrant Beet, Avocado, and Orange Salad is a refreshing combination of earthy, creamy, and citrusy flavors. It’s not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or elegant starter.
Ingredients
- 3–4 medium beets (roasted or boiled, sliced)
- 1 ripe avocado (sliced)
- 1–2 oranges (peeled and segmented)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Optional: crumbled feta or goat cheese, nuts, or seeds
Instructions
1. Cook the beets
Start by preparing the beets. You can either roast or boil them. For roasting, wrap each beet in foil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 40–50 minutes until tender. Alternatively, boil them in water until they can be easily pierced with a fork. Once cooked, allow them to cool, then peel off the skins and slice into wedges or rounds.
2. Prepare the fresh ingredients
While the beets are cooling, slice the avocado and segment the oranges. To segment, remove the peel and carefully cut between the membranes to release clean, juicy slices. For best results, lightly toss the avocado slices in a bit of citrus juice to prevent browning.
3. Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon or orange juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the salad
Arrange the sliced beets, avocado, and orange segments on a serving plate or shallow bowl. Distribute them evenly for a balanced presentation of colors and textures.
5. Finish and serve
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness. If desired, top with crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess, and add nuts or seeds for a satisfying crunch.
Tips & Variations
You can save time by using pre-cooked or canned beets. To make the salad more filling, add protein such as grilled chicken, salmon, chickpeas, or quinoa. Try different dressings like balsamic vinaigrette, honey mustard, or a citrus-lime blend with a touch of honey for variety.
Enjoy this colorful, healthy dish fresh for the best flavor and texture!