| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 60 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 200 | 14g | 5g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 3g | 7g | 0.6g |
When it comes to recipes that find the perfect balance between earthiness and citrusy brightness, few can match the sublime Roasted Beets with Tangelo and Goat Cheese. This exquisite dish marries the deep, rich flavors of roasted beets with the zesty punch of tangelos, all harmonized by the creamy tang of goat cheese. My Louisiana roots and French ancestry have always influenced my culinary choices, and this recipe is no exception. It draws upon the rustic tradition of using local, seasonal produce while adding an elegant touch that elevates the dish to gourmet status.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
What really makes this recipe stand out is the wonderful symphony of flavors and textures. The beets, after being lovingly roasted, develop a kind of caramelly sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tang of the citrus tangelo segments. The goat cheese adds a creamy, slightly tangy note, and the drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar takes it to another level. Not to mention, fresh basil adds a refreshing herbal touch, while optional chopped walnuts offer a delightful crunch.
Health Benefits You’ll Love
Besides being a feast for the palate, this dish offers numerous health benefits. Beets are renowned for their high content of nitrates, which can help lower blood pressure and improve athletic performance. Tangelos, a hybrid of tangerines and pomelos, are packed with Vitamin C, which is essential for immune health. Goat cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium, and for those with lactose intolerance, it’s often easier to digest than cow’s milk cheese. Olive oil and balsamic vinegar lend heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, making this recipe a nutritious choice that’s also incredibly tasty.
This dish can be served as a standalone appetizer or as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with hearty mains like roasted chicken or grilled fish. For a more elaborate meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad or a warm quinoa pilaf.
In terms of similar dishes, if you enjoy the Roasted Beets with Tangelo and Goat Cheese, you might also like my take on Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad, which features similar flavors but in a different form. Another recipe worth exploring is the Warm Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Bowl, which also brings together a medley of seasonal vegetables with a punch of citrus.
Whether you’re a culinary novice or a seasoned chef, I believe this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. The roasted beets, tangelo, and goat cheese combination is one of those rare recipes that delivers both gourmet flair and comforting familiarity, making it an excellent addition to any meal.
What You’ll Need
- 6 medium-sized beets, roasted and diced
- 3 tangelos, peeled and segmented
- 6 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and scrub the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 50-60 minutes or until a fork easily pierces through the beet.
Step Two
Allow the roasted beets to cool completely. Once cool, remove the aluminum foil and peel the beets. Dice the peeled beets into bite-sized cubes and set them aside.
Step Three
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced roasted beets, peeled and segmented tangelos, and crumbled goat cheese. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
Step Four
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chopped fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference.
Step Five
Pour the dressing over the beet and tangelo mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated with the dressing.
Step Six
Transfer the salad to a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle with chopped walnuts for added crunch and texture.
Step Seven
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your Roasted Beets with Tangelo and Goat Cheese!
