Description
A vibrant and healthy Beet and Feta Salad featuring tender roasted or Instant Pot-cooked beets tossed in a tangy and slightly sweet dressing, topped with creamy feta cheese and crunchy pepitas. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients
Beets
- 6 medium red beets
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley
Toppings & Seasoning
- ½ cup crumbled feta (use block for best taste)
- ¼ cup pepitas (substitute with sunflower seeds, walnuts, or pecans if desired)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Beets: You can cook the beets either by roasting them in the oven or using an Instant Pot. To roast, wrap beets in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes until tender. For Instant Pot, add beets to the pot with 1 cup of water, seal and cook on high pressure for about 20-25 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool before peeling and chopping.
- Prepare Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, pure maple syrup, minced garlic, and minced parsley until well combined to create a flavorful dressing.
- Toss Salad: Place the chopped, cooled beets into a serving dish and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to coat all beet pieces evenly with the dressing.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and pepitas over the dressed beet salad. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Chill and Serve: Keep the salad refrigerated until ready to serve to enhance flavors and maintain freshness. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Using block feta cheese and crumbling it yourself enhances the texture and flavor.
- Substitute pepitas with sunflower seeds, walnuts, or pecans based on availability or preference.
- Beets can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegan option, omit feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Adjust the acidity of the dressing by modifying the amount of vinegar to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes (Instant Pot) or 45-60 minutes (Roasting)
- Category: Salad
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mediterranean