This recipe for Rocklands Beet Salad is your chance to celebrate the vibrant flavors of beet season, which typically runs from mid-summer to late fall. With fresh, seasonal ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy side dish at home.
We love beets, we roast ’em, we salad-ify them, and if we could find a beet soup we loved we might even do that.
Why Local and Seasonal?
Seasonal produce boasts superior flavor and nutritional value, while reducing the environmental impact of long-distance transportation. Beets are a perfect example – during their peak season, they’re delightfully sweet and plentiful, making them ideal for this stunning salad. This commitment to fresh, local ingredients allows us to create delicious dishes while supporting sustainable practices.
Beet Salad Recipe
This recipe, created by John himself, is designed to serve a crowd (think two full quarts!), making it perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or simply a weeknight dinner with a colorful twist.
Yields: 2 quarts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 lbs. fresh beets, washed and ready to roast
- ¼ cup of thinly sliced Spanish onions (add a little zing!)
- ¼ cup of orange juice concentrate (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 Tbsp. of granulated sugar (to balance the tang)
- 1 Tbsp. of white vinegar (for a bit of bite)
- 1 tsp. of salt
- ½ tsp. of black pepper (adjust to your taste preference)
- Roast It Up: Place the beets in a saucepan, cover with water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and boil beets until tender (about 45 minutes). Remove from heat and let the beets cool completely, then peel and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- The Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the sliced onions, orange juice concentrate, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Chill: Gently toss the cubed beets with the dressing, letting the flavors meld in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This chilled beet salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a creamy goat cheese spread on crackers. Get creative and enjoy the taste of the season!
Can’t wait to try it? Head to your nearest Rocklands in Arlington, Alexandria, or Washington, DC and enjoy our take on this seasonal favorite.
