Introduction
If you’re looking for an appetizer that combines earthy, creamy, and slightly tangy flavors in every bite, Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Bites with Walnuts and Balsamic Reduction is the perfect choice. This dish brings together the sweet, earthy taste of roasted beets, the creamy tanginess of goat cheese, and the crunch of toasted walnuts, all drizzled with a balsamic reduction for an extra layer of sweetness and acidity. These bites are elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a casual gathering. Whether you serve them at a holiday feast or a summer picnic, they are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium beets, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a sweeter reduction)
- Toothpicks or skewers, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Roast the Beets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Rub the beets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Wrap them individually in foil and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the beets for about 45-60 minutes, until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Let them cool, then peel and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Prepare the Goat Cheese Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with honey until creamy and well-combined.
- Transfer the goat cheese mixture to a piping bag or a small resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
Step 3: Toast the Walnuts
- Place the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the nuts are fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Make the Balsamic Reduction
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar has thickened and reduced by half (about 10-15 minutes). It should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Assemble the Bites
- Take a cube of roasted beet and pipe a small dollop of the goat cheese mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with toasted walnuts and fresh thyme leaves.
- Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the assembled bites.
- Insert a toothpick or skewer into each bite for easy serving.
COOKING NOTES:
- Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness and makes them easier to peel. Be sure to let them cool completely before handling.
- The balsamic reduction can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can whip the goat cheese with a little cream or milk before piping.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these bites as a stylish appetizer for any occasion. Pair them with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red such as Pinot Noir. They also make a delightful addition to a charcuterie board.
Tips:
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked beets available in the produce section of most grocery stores.
- Experiment with different herbs like chives or basil for added flavor.
- For a nut-free version, substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Prep Time:
20 minutes (plus cooling time for the beets)
Cooking Time:
60 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 8g
Conclusion
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Bites with Walnuts and Balsamic Reduction are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, offering an impressive appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets pairs beautifully with the creamy tang of goat cheese, while the crunch of walnuts and the tangy balsamic drizzle elevate each bite. Simple yet sophisticated, these bites are a delightful treat for any palate.
PrintRoasted Beet and Goat Cheese Bites with Walnuts and Balsamic Reduction
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a sweeter reduction)
- Toothpicks or skewers, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Beets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Rub the beets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Wrap them individually in foil and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the beets for about 45-60 minutes, until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Let them cool, then peel and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
Step 2: Prepare the Goat Cheese Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese with honey until creamy and well-combined.
- Transfer the goat cheese mixture to a piping bag or a small resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
Step 3: Toast the Walnuts
- Place the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Toast for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the nuts are fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Make the Balsamic Reduction
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar has thickened and reduced by half (about 10-15 minutes). It should coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Assemble the Bites
- Take a cube of roasted beet and pipe a small dollop of the goat cheese mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with toasted walnuts and fresh thyme leaves.
- Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the assembled bites.
- Insert a toothpick or skewer into each bite for easy serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus cooling time for the beets)
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 3g