Description
Rustic Mediterranean “Roasted Beet and Feta Stack” delivers earthy sweetness with tangy cheese layers. Elegant yet simple, this colorful dish offers Mediterranean flavors you’ll savor with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 large beets (firm and evenly-sized)
- 6 ounces (170 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
Nuts and Garnish:
- 1/4 cup (30 grams) walnuts, toasted and chopped
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Dressing and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) honey
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 400°F (200°C), ensuring a consistent temperature for roasting. Thoroughly cleanse the beets under running water, removing any dirt or debris with a gentle scrub.
- Individually encase each beet in aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet that will help retain moisture during roasting. Arrange the wrapped beets on a baking sheet, positioning them for even heat distribution.
- Roast the beets for 50-60 minutes, periodically checking their tenderness by inserting a fork. The beets are ready when they yield easily and have a soft, fully cooked texture.
- Allow the roasted beets to cool slightly, making them easier to handle. Carefully remove the foil and slip off the skin, which should now come off effortlessly.
- Slice the peeled beets into uniform 1/4-inch rounds, ensuring consistent thickness for an elegant presentation.
- Create the balsamic honey glaze by combining vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Simmer the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Reduce the glaze for 10-15 minutes, watching for a thickened consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- On a serving plate, construct a visually appealing stack by alternating layers of roasted beet slices and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle the stack with olive oil, adding a rich, smooth element to the dish. Generously pour the cooled balsamic honey glaze over the layers.
- Scatter toasted walnuts across the top, providing a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic garnish.
- Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Notes
- Ensure beets are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and prevent gritty texture when eating.
- Select fresh, firm beets with smooth skin for the best roasting results and sweet flavor.
- Wrap beets tightly in foil to lock in moisture and prevent them from drying out during roasting.
- Use a kitchen towel or gloves when peeling roasted beets to avoid staining your hands with deep purple color.
- Reduce balsamic glaze carefully to achieve a syrupy consistency without burning the mixture.
- Toast walnuts briefly in a dry skillet to enhance their nutty flavor and create a crunchier texture.
- Experiment with different cheese options like goat cheese or blue cheese for varied flavor profiles.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the beets’ warmth and prevent feta from becoming too soft.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg