Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 4 medium beets (2 golden and 2 red, or any combination you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, baby spinach, or your favorite blend)
- 1/2 cup pomegranate arils (seeds)
For the Pumpkin Seed Pesto:
- 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas), lightly toasted
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more as needed)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Pomegranate Reduction:
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Beets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse and scrub the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut off the tops and wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over each beet before sealing the foil packet. Place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Allow the beets to cool slightly before peeling. The skins should easily slip off when rubbed with a paper towel or your fingers.
- Slice the roasted beets into wedges and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Seed Pesto
- In a food processor, combine the toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh basil, fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic. Pulse a few times to combine.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth pesto. Add more olive oil as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Add lemon juice, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer the pesto to a small bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Pomegranate Reduction
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the pomegranate juice and honey or maple syrup.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until it has reduced by half and thickened into a syrup-like consistency (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- Arrange a bed of mixed greens on a large serving platter or individual salad plates.
- Place the roasted beet wedges over the greens, alternating colors for a visually appealing presentation.
- Tear the burrata cheese and scatter pieces evenly over the salad. Ensure the creamy center is visible for a stunning effect.
- Drizzle spoonfuls of the pumpkin seed pesto over the beets and greens, then finish with a generous drizzle of the pomegranate reduction.
- Sprinkle pomegranate arils over the salad for a burst of color and flavor.
Step 5: Final Touches
- Season the salad with a pinch of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Optionally, garnish with extra basil leaves or toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes (for roasting the beets and making the reduction)
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 320mg
- Protein: 12g