The Easy Spinach and Beet Salad is a perfect balance of fresh, earthy flavors and vibrant colors. With tender spinach leaves and the naturally sweet, earthy flavor of roasted beets, this salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. The combination of nutrient-rich spinach and beets makes this salad a powerhouse of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying side dish, this salad is sure to brighten your meal and give your body a nutritional boost. It’s versatile, customizable, and quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. The best part? It’s delicious both on its own or paired with your favorite protein for a more substantial meal.

I first made this salad after discovering the beauty of roasted beets at a farmer’s market. I wanted to create a dish that would highlight their natural sweetness while pairing them with a green that could complement their flavor. Spinach turned out to be the perfect match! The combination of roasted beets and fresh spinach created a salad that was not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. When I served it at a family gathering, everyone raved about how the simple ingredients came together in such a refreshing way. Since then, this salad has become a regular part of my weekly meal rotation, and I’m always excited to share it with friends and family.

One of the best things about this Easy Spinach and Beet Salad is how adaptable it is. You can easily swap out spinach for other greens like arugula or kale for a different texture and flavor. You can add nuts for some crunch or cheese like goat cheese or feta for creaminess. The salad is also a fantastic base for different dressings—whether you prefer a simple olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette or something more creamy, this salad will hold up wonderfully. It’s the kind of dish that can easily be modified to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Why This Easy Spinach and Beet Salad?

Selling Points:

• Nutrient-Packed – The combination of spinach and beets offers a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
  
• Quick and Easy – The salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
  
• Customizable – Add or remove ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.
  
• Light yet Filling – With the combination of greens and beets, this salad is light but filling enough to serve as a main or side dish.
  
• Versatile – Serve it with grilled chicken, roasted tofu, or as a stand-alone dish. You can also add nuts or cheese for extra richness.
  

What You Need for Easy Spinach and Beet Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized beets, peeled and cubed
  
• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
  
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  
• 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans (optional)
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or your choice of vinaigrette)
  
• Salt and pepper to taste
  
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  
• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)
  
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Easy Spinach and Beet Salad

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Roast the Beets:
   
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the beets into bite-sized pieces, then toss them in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
     
   • Spread the beets evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir once or twice during roasting to ensure even cooking.
     
2. Prepare the Salad:
   
   • While the beets are roasting, wash and dry the spinach leaves. Place them in a large salad bowl.
     
   • If using, thinly slice the red onion and add it to the salad bowl.
     
3. Prepare the Dressing:
   
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until combined. Adjust the sweetness or acidity to taste.
     
4. Assemble the Salad:
   
   • Once the beets are roasted and have cooled slightly, add them to the salad bowl with the spinach and onion. If you are adding nuts or cheese, sprinkle them over the salad now.
     
5. Dress the Salad:
   
   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
     
6. Serve:
   
   • Garnish the salad with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
     

Tips for the Perfect Easy Spinach and Beet Salad

• Roast the Beets Ahead of Time: You can roast the beets ahead of time and store them in the fridge, making this salad even quicker to prepare when you’re ready to eat.
  
• Use a Good Quality Balsamic Vinegar: The quality of your balsamic vinegar will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the dressing. Choose one that has a rich, complex flavor.
  
• Toast the Nuts: To enhance the flavor, lightly toast the walnuts or pecans in a dry pan before adding them to the salad.
  
• Add Protein: For a heartier meal, top the salad with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for added protein.

Substitutions and Variations

• Greens: Swap spinach for arugula, kale, or mixed greens for a different flavor profile.
  
• Cheese: If you don’t like feta, try goat cheese, blue cheese, or Parmesan for a different taste.
  
• Nuts: Use almonds, hazelnuts, or cashews in place of walnuts or pecans for a different texture and flavor.
  
• Dressing: Use lemon juice and olive oil for a lighter dressing or opt for a creamy dressing like tahini or yogurt-based.
  

Make a Healthier Version

• Lower Fat: Skip the cheese or use a low-fat version. You can also replace the olive oil dressing with a lighter vinaigrette or lemon juice.
  
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or even some cucumber to the salad for added nutrients and fiber.
  
• Skip the Nuts: If you are watching your calorie intake, omit the nuts for a lower-fat version.
  

Closing for Easy Spinach and Beet Salad

The Easy Spinach and Beet Salad is a perfect addition to any meal plan, whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a hearty salad to pair with a protein. With its beautiful colors, nutrient-rich ingredients, and versatility, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. This salad is easy to customize, quick to prepare, and packed with flavor—an excellent way to eat fresh and healthy every day. Try it out, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to make it your own.

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Spinach and Beet Salad

1. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roasted beets ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, assemble the salad and add the dressing.

2. How long can I store leftovers?
The salad can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days, but the spinach will start to wilt. It’s best to enjoy it fresh.

3. Can I use canned beets instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned beets, but roasting fresh beets will give the salad a more robust flavor and texture.

4. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, simply skip the feta cheese and opt for a plant-based cheese or leave it out entirely. Use a vegan-friendly dressing as well.

5. How can I make this salad spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or include some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

6. What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light lunch.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Carrots, cucumbers, or roasted sweet potatoes are great additions to this salad.

8. Can I use a different vinegar in the dressing?
Yes, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar would also work well in the dressing.

9. Can I make the salad in advance?
While you can prepare the individual components ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to prevent the spinach from wilting.

10. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with almonds, pistachios, or any other nuts of your choice.

The Easy Spinach and Beet Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. With its fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and health benefits, it’s an excellent option for any meal. Whether you’re eating it as a side dish or as a light main course, this salad is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Try it out and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite!

Easy Spinach and Beet Salad

Recipe by Alexandra SaricolCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized beets, peeled and cubed

• 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans (optional)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or your choice of vinaigrette)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)

• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Roast the Beets:
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the beets into bite-sized pieces, then toss them in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Spread the beets evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir once or twice during roasting to ensure even cooking.
• Prepare the Salad:
• While the beets are roasting, wash and dry the spinach leaves. Place them in a large salad bowl.
• If using, thinly slice the red onion and add it to the salad bowl.
• Prepare the Dressing:
• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until combined. Adjust the sweetness or acidity to taste.
• Assemble the Salad:
• Once the beets are roasted and have cooled slightly, add them to the salad bowl with the spinach and onion. If you are adding nuts or cheese, sprinkle them over the salad now.
• Dress the Salad:
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
• Serve:
• Garnish the salad with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.