🥗 Beet and Burrata Salad with Pine Nuts & Balsamic Dressing
✨ Description:
This vibrant salad combines earthy roasted beets, creamy burrata, peppery greens, and nutty pine nuts, all drizzled with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. It’s a visually stunning and flavor-packed dish that’s quick to prepare yet elegant enough for entertaining.
🛒 Ingredients:
- 2 medium beets, cooked (roasted or boiled), peeled & sliced
- 1 ball of burrata cheese (about 4 oz)
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts
- 2 cups arugula or mixed greens
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
🍳 Directions:
- Prepare the Beets:
- Roast or boil beets until tender (~45 mins roast / 30 mins boil). Let cool, peel, and slice thinly.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Lay a bed of arugula or mixed greens on a serving plate.
- Arrange beet slices around or layered within the greens.
- Gently place the burrata in the center.
- Dress & Finish:
- Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over everything.
- Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Serve Immediately:
- Best enjoyed fresh while the burrata is creamy and cool.
🍽️ Servings:
Serves 2 as a light meal or 4 as an appetizer or side salad.
🔥 Tips & Notes:
- Make it Extra Fancy: Add orange segments or a few pomegranate seeds for a citrusy pop.
- Burrata Swap: If burrata isn’t available, use fresh mozzarella or goat cheese.
- Beet Tip: Use both golden and red beets for a colorful presentation (roast them separately to prevent staining).
- Toasting Pine Nuts: Toast in a dry skillet over low heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Serving Option: Serve with crusty bread or crostini for an elegant starter.
🧠 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: ~290
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Calcium: ~15% DV
- Iron: ~10% DV
(Based on 2 servings, values may vary slightly)
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Beets: Rich in nitrates, which may support blood pressure and endurance. High in folate and antioxidants.
- Burrata: Creamy and calcium-rich; offers protein and fats for satiety.
- Pine Nuts: Provide healthy fats, magnesium, and plant protein.
- Balsamic Glaze: Adds flavor with minimal calories when used sparingly.
- Greens (Arugula): Peppery and rich in Vitamin K, folate, and chlorophyll.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I prep this salad ahead of time?
A: You can prep the beets and toast the pine nuts in advance. Assemble and dress just before serving for best texture and freshness.
Q: Is this salad gluten-free?
A: Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Q: What wine pairs well with this salad?
A: Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé. For red lovers, a light Pinot Noir works well with the earthy beets.
Q: Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
A: Yes, but if you prefer homemade: simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tbsp honey until reduced by half and syrupy.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Swap burrata for vegan cheese or avocado slices and ensure the balsamic glaze is honey-free.
Want a printable card, a visual recipe poster, or pairing suggestions for a dinner menu? I can help with that too! 😊