Description
This vibrant Roasted Beet and Caramelized Pear Salad features tender roasted beets paired with sweet, buttery caramelized pears, topped with tangy feta cheese and crunchy pistachios. Tossed with a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing and a bed of fresh mixed greens, this salad is a perfect balance of earthy, sweet, and savory flavors, ideal as a light lunch or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Fruits
- 2 medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges
- 2 pears, sliced
- 3 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
Oils and Fats
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tbsp butter
Sweeteners
- 1 tbsp honey (plus 1 tsp for dressing)
Seasonings
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of salt & pepper (for dressing)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp Dijon mustard
Cheese and Nuts
- ½ cup crumbled feta
- ⅓ cup chopped pistachios
Instructions
- Roast Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the beet wedges with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to coat evenly. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even caramelization and tenderness.
- Caramelize Pears: While the beets roast, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced pears and 1 tablespoon of honey. Sauté the pears for 6–8 minutes until they turn golden and soft but maintain their shape, being careful not to let them become mushy.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creates a bright, sweet, and tangy dressing to complement the salad ingredients.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, roasted beets, and caramelized pears gently to mix all the flavors.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta cheese and chopped pistachios for a creamy and crunchy texture contrast.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors at their best.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the pears during caramelization to retain their texture.
- Use fresh, ripe pears for the best flavor and sweetness.
- For a nut-free version, omit pistachios or substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds.
- This salad is best served immediately but can be prepped in advance by roasting beets and caramelizing pears ahead of time.
- Mix different greens to suit your preference, such as baby kale or romaine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: roasted beet salad, caramelized pear salad, feta cheese salad, pistachio salad, fall salad recipe, healthy salad
