Roasted Beet and Aioli Salad

Name: Roasted Beet and Aioli Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized beets; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love creating vibrant salads that not only look appealing but also burst with flavor. This Roasted Beet and Aioli Salad is a perfect example, combining the earthiness of roasted beets with the creamy, garlicky goodness of aioli. The contrasting colors and textures make it an eye-catching dish for any occasion. I also enjoy how the sweetness of the beets shines through when paired with the tang of the aioli, making each bite a delightful experience. Trust me, this salad is a must-try for beet lovers and salad enthusiasts alike!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:02:28.657Z

As I was experimenting with different salad ingredients, I stumbled upon the delightful combination of roasted beets and homemade aioli. Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness, and the aioli provides a perfect balance with its garlicky richness. When I served this to my friends, they couldn't believe the bold flavors!

I also learned that letting the beets cool slightly before slicing them helps preserve their vibrant color and makes for a more visually appealing dish. The creaminess of the aioli helps to tie all the components together beautifully in every forkful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors that brighten up any meal
Creamy aioli adds a delightful tang to the sweetness of roasted beets
Easy to prepare while still being impressive for guests

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When preparing the Roasted Beet and Aioli Salad, selecting fresh and high-quality ingredients can elevate the dish significantly. Fresh beets should feel firm and heavy with vivid skin—avoid ones that are overly soft or shriveled. Additionally, opt for mixed salad greens that show no signs of wilting or browning, as this contributes to both texture and presentation. Trust me, vibrant greens combined with earthy beets create a visually stunning and flavorful base for your salad.

Don’t underestimate the role of toasted walnuts in this dish. Toasting them prior to adding enhances their flavor and brings out a rich nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet beets. I recommend toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. This simple step can transform their taste and add an indispensable crunch to your salad.

Perfecting the Aioli

The aioli you create for this salad should have a creamy consistency and a robust garlic flavor. To achieve the right balance, it’s essential to use good quality mayonnaise—homemade mayonnaise can take the flavor to another level if you’re up for it. When incorporating the minced garlic, make sure it’s fresh, as jarred versions can lack the intensity needed for a punchy aioli. Allowing the aioli to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Lastly, don't skip the seasoning! Taste the aioli before serving and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Depending on your preference for acidity, you can add a touch more lemon juice for brightness. This adaptability to your taste makes the aioli a personalized touch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley can add freshness and complement the beets particularly well.

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 medium-sized beets
4 cups mixed salad greens
1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Instructions

Instructions

Roast the Beets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 30 minutes or until tender.

Allow them to cool before peeling and slicing.

Make the Aioli

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens and sliced beets. Drizzle the aioli over the top, and gently toss to combine. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts and crumbled feta cheese before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor punch, add some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the aioli. You can also experiment with different types of greens for added variety.

Storing and Meal Prep

If you plan to make this salad ahead of time, it's best to store the beets and greens separately until just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and crispness. Roasted beets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can create the aioli up to two days in advance; it holds well in the fridge and only gets better as the flavors develop. Just give it a good stir before serving to combine any separated ingredients.

When ready to assemble, just toss your prepped greens with the roasted beets, drizzle the aioli, and top with walnuts and feta. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping lunches or quick dinners.

Servings and Variations

This Roasted Beet and Aioli Salad serves about 4 as a side dish but can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Consider doubling the quantities of ingredients if you're hosting a group. It can also be stretched to serve as a main dish by adding proteins like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some quinoa for a hearty meal. Adjust the topping amounts accordingly to keep the proportion balanced.

For those who are vegan or looking for lighter alternatives, swap the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a tahini-based dressing. The feta cheese can be omitted or replaced with avocado for creaminess without dairy. This versatility ensures that the salad remains appealing to a range of dietary preferences while still being delightful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-cooked beets?

Yes, pre-cooked beets can save time! Just slice them and add them directly to the salad.

→ What can I substitute for aioli?

If you prefer, you can use a creamy vinaigrette or yogurt dressing instead of aioli.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep the aioli separate until you're ready to serve.

→ Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan mayonnaise for the aioli and omit the feta cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.