Let’s be honest—salads in winter often feel like a sad compromise. But not this one. It’s warm (thanks, roasted beetroot), it’s vibrant (hello, juicy citrus), and it’s the kind of solo meal that feels equal parts nourishing and actually enjoyable to eat. Like, you might even crave this one. No sad desk lunches here.
🌟 Why You’ll Love It (Especially in Winter)
This salad is a nutrient-packed powerhouse in disguise. Beets are rich in nitrates that can help support blood flow and energy levels (super handy when it’s cold and you’re sluggish), while citrus gives you that much-needed vitamin C boost to keep your immune system humming.
Plus, the combo of creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts makes it feel fancy with zero fuss.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 1 small beetroot, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 small orange or mandarin, peeled and sliced into rounds or segments
- 1–2 tbsp crumbled goat cheese (or feta)
- 1 tbsp chopped walnuts (toasted if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
- Roast the Beet
Preheat oven to 200°C (fan). Toss beet cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a tray for 20–25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelised. - Make the Salad Base
In a bowl, add baby spinach and orange slices. - Assemble
Once the beetroot has cooled slightly, add it to the salad. Top with crumbled goat cheese and chopped walnuts. - Dress It Up
Drizzle with a little balsamic or red wine vinegar, add a pinch of salt and pepper, and toss lightly. - Eat Immediately
Or take a photo first. It’s that pretty.
🧠 Nutrition Snapshot
- Beets: Improve blood flow and support heart health
- Citrus: Packed with vitamin C for immune support
- Walnuts & Cheese: Healthy fats and a bit of protein
- Roughly 350–400 kcal per serve
💡 Healthy Hack
Want to make it more filling? Add a scoop of cooked quinoa, lentils, or some grilled chicken or tofu on top.
🧊 Storage Tips
Roast extra beetroot and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days—it’s delicious tossed through salads, wraps, or warm grain bowls.
This salad is best assembled fresh, but you can prep components in advance and build it in under 2 minutes when you’re ready to eat.
🔄 Swap Suggestions
- No goat cheese? Use feta, ricotta, or even a spoonful of Greek yoghurt.
- Swap spinach for rocket, kale (massage it first), or mixed greens.
- Use grapefruit or blood orange for a seasonal twist.
- No walnuts? Try almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
🥄 Small Salad, Big Benefits
When your body’s begging for comfort food but your brain says “please eat a vegetable,” this roasted beet and citrus salad strikes the perfect balance. Sweet, savoury, crunchy, creamy—it’s everything you want in one colourful bowl. No boring salads allowed.
💬 Got a favourite winter salad combo? Share it below or tag @Plan4One in your pics! Want more cosy, healthy recipes just for you? Hit that subscribe button and we’ll send fresh inspiration every week.
