Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese, Candied Walnuts & Citrus Vinaigrette



For the Citrus Vinaigrette:

  • 1/2 shallot, minced

  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice

  • 1 tbsp finely orange zest, for garnish
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper


For the salad:

  • 1/2 pound small to medium beets, stems trimmed and scrubbed

  • 1 bag Baby Greens 

  • 1 log (4 oz.) fresh goat cheese

  • 1/2 cup candied walnuts


For the candied walnuts:

  • 1/3 cup golden brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Large pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups walnut halves

Directions

  • For the beets: Preheat oven to 400°F. Wrap the beets in aluminum foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake until the tip of a sharp knife easily slides through the beets, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let cool. Once cool enough to handle, use plastic gloves to peel the beets. Cut into bite size pieces.
  • For candied walnuts: 
Combine the first four ingredients together in a large heavy skillet. Bring to a boil, whisking. Let boil 1 minute. Stir in walnuts, then toss until the syrup forms a glaze on the nuts, about 3 minutes. Transfer nuts to a foil covered cookie sheet and quickly separate nuts with forks. Let cool. Let stand at room temperature. Note: This can be made 2 hours ahead.
  • For the citrus vinaigrette: In small bowl whisk together the first eight ingredients until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover until ready to use.
  • For the salad: Divide the salad leaves equally among the plates. Top with the beets and then drizzle with the vinaigrette to taste. Crumble the goat cheese on top and garnish with candied walnuts and orange zest.