Beet Salad on a Stick

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beet Salad on a Stick combines the deep, earthy flavor of roasted beets with the refreshing crunch of salad greens and the creaminess of cheese, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The presentation on a skewer makes it easy to serve and eat, while also making it a great conversation starter at any event. The colorful combination of beets, greens, and cheese also adds a touch of elegance to your table, making it a perfect dish for both casual and formal gatherings. It’s healthy, fresh, and most importantly, fun to eat!

Ingredients

• 3 medium-sized beets, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)

• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional for a vegan version)

• 1/4 cup toasted nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds), roughly chopped

• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze or dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• Wooden skewers or cocktail sticks

For the dressing (optional, if using homemade):

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (or honey for non-vegan)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Roast the beets:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 40-50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Allow the beets to cool before peeling and cutting them into 1-inch cubes.

2. Prepare the dressing (optional):

   • If you’re making your own dressing, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.

3. Assemble the skewers:

   • Once the beets are roasted and cut, begin threading the beet cubes, mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese (or feta), and toasted nuts onto the wooden skewers. You can layer the ingredients however you like, but aim for a balance of beets, greens, cheese, and nuts on each skewer.

4. Drizzle with dressing:

   • Place the assembled skewers on a serving platter and drizzle them with balsamic glaze or your homemade dressing. You can also serve extra dressing on the side for dipping.

5. Serve and enjoy:

   • Serve immediately as a fun appetizer or salad. These skewers make for a colorful and fresh addition to any gathering.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 6-8 skewers

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 40-50 minutes (for roasting the beets)

• Total Time: 50-60 minutes (including cooling time for the beets)

Variations

• Vegan option: Skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese like cashew cheese or vegan feta to make this salad fully vegan.

• Different greens: If you don’t have mixed greens, you can use baby arugula, spinach, or even microgreens for a more delicate flavor.

• Fruit: Add fresh fruit like orange slices or pomegranate seeds to the skewers for an extra burst of color and sweetness.

• Cheese alternatives: Instead of goat cheese, try using ricotta, burrata, or even fresh mozzarella for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

These Beet Salad on a Stick skewers are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent the beets from becoming soggy, it’s best to store the dressing separately and drizzle it just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked beets for this recipe?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pre-cooked beets. Just make sure to cut them into cubes and chill them before assembling the skewers.

2. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a few hours. Just wait to drizzle the dressing until right before serving for the best flavor and presentation.

3. How do I make the beets easier to peel?

Once roasted, the skin of the beets should slip off easily. Allow the beets to cool a little after roasting, then rub the skin off with your fingers or use a paper towel to remove it.

4. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like blue cheese, ricotta, or even a vegan cheese substitute if you prefer.

5. Can I make this salad without the skewers?

Yes! You can make this beet salad on a platter by simply layering the roasted beets, greens, cheese, and nuts. Drizzle with the dressing just before serving.

6. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes! You can use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts. Toast them lightly in a pan to bring out their flavor for an added crunch.

7. How can I make the dressing sweeter?

To add more sweetness to the dressing, simply increase the amount of maple syrup or honey (if not vegan) to taste. You can also add a bit of fruit juice like orange juice for a citrusy sweetness.

8. Can I grill the beets instead of roasting them?

Yes, you can grill the beets! Just wrap them in foil and grill them on medium heat until tender, about 30-40 minutes.

9. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure your cheese or other toppings are gluten-free if needed.

10. Can I serve this salad as a main course?

Yes! You can serve these beet salad skewers as a light main course, especially if you add more hearty toppings like avocado, quinoa, or a protein of your choice.

Conclusion

Beet Salad on a Stick is a fresh, fun, and vibrant twist on a classic beet salad. With earthy roasted beets, tangy cheese, crispy nuts, and a zesty dressing, these skewers offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a creative appetizer or a unique way to serve a healthy salad, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.