Description
This Beet Salad with Spinach and Honey-Mustard Lemon Dressing is bright, fresh, and full of flavor. Tender roasted beets pair beautifully with sweet citrus, crunchy walnuts, and fresh spinach, while the tangy honey-mustard lemon dressing ties everything together perfectly. It’s a colorful salad that feels light yet satisfying, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 3 medium cooked beets, sliced
- 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1 small avocado, sliced
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion
For the Honey-Mustard Lemon Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Wash and dry the spinach thoroughly, then place it into a large serving bowl. Fresh dry greens help the dressing coat the salad better without becoming watery.
If using fresh beets, roast them by wrapping each beet in foil and baking at 400°F for about 45 to 55 minutes until fork tender. Let them cool slightly, then peel and slice into rounds. You can also use pre-cooked beets to save time.
Peel the oranges and cut them into segments, removing as much white pith as possible for the sweetest flavor. Slice the avocado and thinly slice the red onion.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy. The dressing should taste slightly sweet, tangy, and fresh.
Arrange the spinach on a serving platter or in a large salad bowl. Top with sliced beets, orange segments, avocado slices, walnuts, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese if using.
Drizzle the honey-mustard lemon dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently so the ingredients stay intact and the spinach remains fresh.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Roasted beets taste sweeter and more flavorful than canned beets
- Wear gloves while handling beets to avoid staining your hands
- Chill the beets before assembling if you prefer a cold refreshing salad
- Fresh lemon juice gives the dressing the brightest flavor
- Toss gently to keep the avocado and orange slices from breaking apart
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 per serving