Beetroot and orange salad

Beetroot and Orange Salad: An Explosion of Flavors and Colors

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Regardless of the season, the beetroot and orange salad remains a fresh dish, full of vitality and health. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of beetroot with the refreshing acidity of orange, in a combination that not only delights the taste buds but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Beetroot is known for its detoxifying properties, while protecting the liver, while orange provides a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants. Together, these ingredients create a delicious salad that can be served as an appetizer or as a side dish.

Necessary Ingredients:
- 4-5 small beetroot
- 4 oranges
- 1 tablespoon quality olive oil (preferably Costa D’Oro)
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons toasted almonds
- a pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Beetroot
Start by washing the beetroot thoroughly under cold running water, removing any traces of dirt. You can choose to boil or roast it – I personally prefer the roasted version, as it intensifies its sweet flavor and brings a deeper taste. If you choose to boil it, place the beetroot in a pot with enough water to cover it completely. Boil for about 30-40 minutes, or until it becomes soft when pierced with a fork. If you opt for roasting, wrap the beetroot in aluminum foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 200°C for 45-50 minutes. Once cooled, peel the beetroot and slice it into rounds.

Step 2: Preparing the Oranges
Peel the oranges, making sure to remove the white membrane, which is bitter. Cut them into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. I recommend using well-ripened oranges for a sweet and juicy taste. Half of one orange will be used for the dressing, so squeeze the juice from it and set it aside.

Step 3: Preparing the Rosemary
Use a sprig of fresh rosemary, remove the leaves from the stem, and chop them very finely. Rosemary adds a distinct flavor and irresistible aroma to the salad, so don’t skip this step.

Step 4: Toasting the Almonds
In a non-stick skillet, toast the almonds over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Toasting will enhance the flavor of the almonds, adding a crunchy texture and delicious taste to your salad. Once they turn golden, remove them from heat and let them cool, then crush them lightly.

Step 5: Preparing the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix the orange juice, chopped rosemary, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and olive oil. Mix well until all the ingredients are homogeneous and the dressing becomes creamy. This will add a touch of sweetness and acidity to your salad.

Step 6: Assembling the Salad
On a large plate, artistically arrange the slices of beetroot and orange, alternating the colors for an appealing look. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, making sure to cover all the ingredients evenly. Finally, sprinkle the crushed toasted almonds on top for an extra crunch.

Serving and Variations:
This salad can be served warm or cold, and pairs wonderfully as an appetizer or side dish alongside fish or grilled meat. You can also experiment with other ingredients by adding feta or mozzarella cheese for a creamy note, or nuts instead of almonds for a different texture. Additionally, you can replace oranges with grapefruit for a more tangy version.

Nutritional Benefits:
This salad is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, with a low-calorie content, making it ideal for a healthy diet. Beetroot contributes to cardiovascular health, while orange helps strengthen the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned beetroot? Yes, but the fresh taste is incomparable.
- Can I replace oranges with another fruit? Yes, apples or pears can provide a delicious alternative.
- How can I make the salad spicier? Add a few thin slices of chili pepper for a surprising taste.

In conclusion, the beetroot and orange salad is an excellent choice for moments when you want to enjoy a simple, healthy dish full of flavors. So, embrace this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its tastes! Enjoy your meal!