Baked Beets with Goat Cheese and Nuts is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the creaminess of goat cheese and the crunch of nuts. It's perfect as a salad, side dish, or even a light main course. Here's a simple recipe:
Baked Beets with Goat Cheese and Nuts
Ingredients:
- 4 medium beets, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup nuts (walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts), toasted and chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or basil), for garnish
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Roast the Beets:
- Rub the beets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Roast the beets in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, depending on their size, until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once roasted, remove the beets from the oven, unwrap, and let them cool slightly. After they are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins (they should come off easily with your hands or a paper towel).
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Slice the Beets:
- Slice the peeled beets into wedges or rounds, depending on your preference.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Arrange the sliced beets on a serving platter. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and balsamic vinegar, if using.
- Scatter the crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts over the beets.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a salad or side dish.
Optional Variations:
- Add Greens: Serve the beets over a bed of arugula or mixed greens for a more substantial salad.
- Different Cheeses: Swap goat cheese for feta or blue cheese if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Add Fruit: For extra sweetness, toss in some fresh figs, pears, or a handful of dried cranberries.
This dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy!
