Beetroot and cheese salad

Beetroot Salad with Cheese – A Tasty and Colorful Appetizer

I propose a recipe for beetroot salad with cheese, an appetizer that is not only delicious but also full of color and texture, perfect for any occasion. This simple and flavorful combination is ideal for bringing a touch of freshness to your table, whether you serve it at an elegant dinner or simply indulge on an ordinary day. Join me on a culinary journey that will delight your senses!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2-3 hours
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 300 g cheese (you can choose goat cheese, feta, or even a mild cheese like I used, brought from Văratec Monastery)
- 1 small roasted beetroot
- 50 g sunflower seeds, soaked
- Ground white pepper, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- Himalayan pink salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

The Story Behind the Recipe

Beetroot salad with cheese is a dish that has gained popularity in kitchens around the world, thanks to its versatility and the nutritional benefits that beetroot offers. It is an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help improve heart health and detoxify the body. Combined with creamy cheese, the salad becomes not only nourishing but also extremely tasty.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the beetroot:
- If you don't have roasted beetroot, you can prepare it at home. Wrap the beetroot in aluminum foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender (check with a fork).
- Once the beetroot is roasted, let it cool to room temperature, then peel it. It is essential to keep it in the refrigerator for a few hours to chill well and intensify the flavors.

2. Preparing the cheese:
- Cut the cheese into cubes of your desired size. If using goat cheese or feta, it is best to choose a firmer texture that holds well in the salad.

3. Mixing the ingredients:
- In a large bowl, add the beetroot and cheese cubes.
- In another container, combine the olive oil, sweet paprika, Himalayan pink salt, white pepper, rosemary, and oregano. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous marinade.

4. Assembling the salad:
- Pour the marinade over the beetroot and cheese, gently mixing to avoid breaking the cubes.
- Finally, sprinkle the soaked sunflower seeds on top for added crunch and nutrients.

5. Chilling:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours. This step is crucial to allow the flavors to blend and intensify.

Practical Tips

- Soaking the seeds: Before using, soak the sunflower seeds in water for 2-4 hours to make them easier to digest and enhance their nutrients.
- Cheese variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as burrata or mozzarella, depending on your preferences.
- Serving: This salad can be served on a bed of fresh arugula or spinach for added freshness. You can also add some toasted nuts or almonds for varied taste and texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Beetroot is known for its health benefits, being rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. Cheese adds calcium and quality protein, while olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
- Of course! Grated carrots or radishes can add a touch of freshness and color to your salad.

2. What drinks pair well with this salad?
- A dry white wine or a gin-based cocktail with fresh herbs would perfectly complement the salad's flavors.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
- Yes, the salad can be made a day ahead. Just make sure to keep it well covered in the refrigerator.

4. How can I vary the ingredients?
- You can add avocado for creaminess or olives for a salty and intense note. You can also replace sunflower seeds with pecans or pumpkin seeds for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Beetroot salad with cheese is more than just an appetizer; it is an explosion of colors and flavors that celebrates simple yet nutritious ingredients. With every bite, you will savor not only the taste but also the health benefits. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and personalize it to your liking. Enjoy!