Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad Finished with Goat Cheese

### Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad with Goat Cheese

#### Introduction
The roasted beet and citrus salad with goat cheese presents a lively and nutritious meal, blending earthy tastes with bright, invigorating flavors. This salad is both aesthetically appealing and rich in vital nutrients, serving as an excellent enhancement to any meal or a standalone option for a light lunch.

#### Ingredients
– **Beets**: 3 medium-sized, ideally a combination of red and golden beets for a colorful display
– **Citrus Fruits**: 2 oranges and 1 grapefruit, cut into segments
– **Goat Cheese**: 4 ounces, crumbled
– **Greens**: 4 cups of assorted greens (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
– **Nuts**: 1/2 cup of toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch
– **Dressing**:
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
– Salt and pepper to taste

#### Preparation

1. **Roasting the Beets**:
– Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) for preheating.
– Clean and trim the beets, wrapping each in aluminum foil.
– Arrange the foil-wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
– After cooking, let the beets cool slightly, then remove the skins and cut into wedges.

2. **Preparing the Citrus**:
– While the beets are roasting, prepare the citrus segments. Using a sharp knife, slice off the top and bottom of the oranges and grapefruit. Stand the fruit upright and carefully cut off the peel and pith, following the shape of the fruit.
– Gently segment the fruit by cutting between the membranes to extract the segments. Set aside.

3. **Making the Dressing**:
– In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until fully mixed.

4. **Assembling the Salad**:
– In a large bowl, mix the assorted greens, roasted beet wedges, and citrus segments.
– Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
– Finish with crumbled goat cheese and toasted nuts for additional flavor and texture.

#### Nutritional Benefits
– **Beets**: Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals including potassium and magnesium, beets are recognized for their anti-inflammatory effects and support of heart health.
– **Citrus Fruits**: High in vitamin C and fiber, citrus fruits boost the immune system and aid in healthy digestion.
– **Goat Cheese**: A great source of protein and calcium, goat cheese imparts creaminess and a rich flavor to the salad.
– **Nuts**: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, nuts promote heart health and offer a satisfying crunch.

#### Serving Suggestions
This roasted beet and citrus salad can be enjoyed as an appetizer or as a main course. It complements grilled chicken or fish for a more hearty meal. For vegetarian options, consider incorporating quinoa or farro for added protein and texture.

#### Conclusion
The roasted beet and citrus salad with goat cheese creates a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that can be savored throughout the year. Its vibrant presentation and health advantages make it an excellent choice for gatherings, meal preparation, or simply a refreshing dish at home.