Beet salad with oranges and apples in a colorful bowl

Beet, Orange, and Apple Salad

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Beet, Orange, and Apple Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the earthy flavors of beets, the sweetness of oranges, and the crunchiness of apples. This colorful salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Making this recipe allows you to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal or side dish that is perfect for any occasion.

How to Make Beet, Orange, and Apple Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 pounds beets
  • 2 cups shredded beet greens
  • 1 large orange
  • 2 Granny Smith apples – peeled, cored and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon raspberry vinegar
  • 0.5 teaspoon white sugar
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted sunflower seeds, toasted

Directions:

  1. Wash and dry the beets and beet greens. Shred the beet greens to measure 2 cups and set aside.
  2. Place the beets in a saucepan with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and allow to cool.
  3. Trim and peel the skins off the beets; cut them into 8 wedges.
  4. Combine the orange sections, beets, and apples in a bowl.
  5. Whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, and garlic in a separate bowl; pour it over the beet mixture and toss well.
  6. Arrange 1/2 cup of beet greens on 4 salad plates. Top with the beet mixture, sprinkle with sunflower seeds, and serve.

How to Serve Beet, Orange, and Apple Salad

Serve Beet, Orange, and Apple Salad as a light main dish or as a refreshing side. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or simply a whole grain dish. The bright flavors make this salad a great choice for picnics, potlucks, or family dinners.

How to Store Beet, Orange, and Apple Salad

To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best to eat the salad within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. If you want to store the dressing separately, do so to keep the salad crisp.

Tips to Make Beet, Orange, and Apple Salad

  • If you want extra sweetness, try adding a drizzle of honey to the dressing.
  • For a bit more crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
  • You can also add feta cheese for a creamy contrast to the salad.

Variation

You can easily customize this salad by adding other fruits like pomegranate seeds or nuts for added texture and flavor. If you’re looking for a more robust salad, consider adding cooked quinoa or chickpeas.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beets instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned beets for convenience, but fresh beets will yield a better texture and flavor.

2. How can I prepare beets in advance?
You can roast or boil beets a day ahead of time. Just let them cool, peel, and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to make the salad.

3. Is this salad dessert-friendly?
While not a traditional dessert, the sweetness from the fruits makes it a great option for a light and healthy treat after a meal!