how to make beetroot salad

Introduction
Beetroot salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish. Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, beetroot offers numerous health benefits. This simple recipe will guide you through the process of making a delicious and visually appealing beetroot salad at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
To make beetroot salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized beetroots
- 1 small red onion
- 100 grams of crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
Start by washing the beetroots thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Next, peel the beetroots using a vegetable peeler. You can wear gloves to avoid staining your hands. Once peeled, cut the beetroots into thin slices or cubes, according to your preference. Similarly, finely slice the small red onion and set it aside.
Step 2: Boiling the Beetroots
Place the beetroot slices or cubes in a large pot of boiling water. Let them boil for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they become tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the beetroot pieces. Use a fork to check if the beetroots are soft enough to be eaten. Once cooked, drain the beetroots and let them cool down for a few minutes.
Step 3: Assembling the Salad
In a separate bowl, combine the boiled beetroots and sliced red onion. Add the crumbled feta cheese and toss gently to mix all the ingredients together. For the dressing, combine balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil in a small jar. Shake the jar vigorously to emulsify the dressing. Drizzle the dressing over the beetroot mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Seasoning and Garnishing
Season the beetroot salad with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Tear the fresh basil leaves into small pieces and sprinkle them over the salad for added flavor and aroma. Give the salad a final toss to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Serving
Transfer the beetroot salad to a serving dish or individual plates. You can serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for a while to allow the flavors to meld together. Beetroot salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing and healthy meal.
Variations
This basic beetroot salad recipe can be customized based on personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add roasted walnuts or pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Replace feta cheese with crumbled goat cheese or blue cheese for a different taste.
- Include other vegetables like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or avocado to enhance the nutritional value.
- For a sweeter flavor profile, drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the salad.
Conclusion
With its vibrant colors and numerous health benefits, beetroot salad is a delightful addition to any meal. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the earthy flavors of beetroot while benefiting from its nutritional value. Experiment with different variations and make this salad your own. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, beetroot salad is sure to impress your taste buds and boost your well-being.