Beetroot salad with vegan mayonnaise

Red Beet Salad with Vegan Mayonnaise

If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe that will delight your taste buds and bring a splash of color to your plate, then the red beet salad with vegan mayonnaise is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only healthy but also extremely versatile - it can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course in a vegetarian meal. Red beets are an ingredient with a rich history, used in dishes around the world due to their sweet taste and nutritional benefits.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 4 pieces of red beet (approximately 600 g)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon grated horseradish (optional, for a spicy taste)
- 1 clove of garlic (optional, for flavor)

For vegan mayonnaise:
- 100 ml soy milk
- 200 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil, as preferred)
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Juice of half a lemon

Preparation

1. Boiling the beets: Wash the red beets well under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, place the whole beets, skins on, in a large pot and add enough water to cover them completely. Boil the beets over medium heat for about 45 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a toothpick. It is important not to peel them before boiling; the skin helps retain the flavor and nutrients.

2. Preparing the mayonnaise: While the beets are boiling, you can prepare the vegan mayonnaise. In the container of an immersion blender, add the soy milk, mustard, oil, and lemon juice. Place the blender at the bottom of the container and turn it on, slowly lifting it vertically. You will notice how the mayonnaise starts to form quickly, in about 2 minutes. Once you have a creamy consistency, place the mayonnaise in the refrigerator to chill.

3. Finishing the salad: When the beets are cooked, drain the water and let them cool slightly. After they have cooled enough to handle, peel the beets (the skin should come off easily) and grate them using a large grater. If desired, you can add grated horseradish and garlic grated on a fine grater for extra flavor.

4. Mixing: In a large bowl, combine the grated beets, horseradish, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the vegan mayonnaise and mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Taste the salad and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.

5. Serving: Chill the beet salad for about 30 minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld. Serve the salad on a slice of toasted bread or as a side dish alongside other dishes. It is delicious and healthy, and the vibrant colors make it appealing for any meal.

Practical Tips

- Choosing beets: When selecting beets, opt for medium-sized, firm ones without blemishes. Smaller beets tend to be sweeter, while larger ones may be more fibrous.

- Horseradish: If you enjoy a spicy flavor, add more horseradish, but use it sparingly, as it can become overwhelming.

- Variations: You can try adding other grated vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to diversify the texture and taste of the salad. You can also use plant-based yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.

- Pairings: This salad pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as iced lemon tea or a green smoothie. It also goes well with grilled vegetable dishes or a serving of vegetarian quiche.

Nutritional Benefits

Red beets are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of beets can support heart health, improve blood circulation, and aid in detoxifying the body. Additionally, the vegan mayonnaise made from soy milk offers a healthy and delicious alternative, cholesterol-free and lower in calories than traditional mayonnaise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beets? While fresh beets provide better flavor and texture, you can also use canned beets to save time. Just make sure to drain them well before using.

2. Can the salad be stored? The red beet salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. The flavor will intensify as it sits.

3. Is this recipe vegan? Yes, the recipe is completely vegan due to the use of soy milk instead of eggs, making it perfect for those following a fasting or vegetarian diet.

With this information and details, you will be able to prepare a delicious and healthy red beet salad with vegan mayonnaise that will surely impress everyone who tastes it. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a simple and flavorful recipe!