Mary Berry Beetroot And Feta Salad Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant salad that’s packed with flavor and nutrients, you should definitely give Mary Berry’s beetroot and feta salad a try!

The earthy sweetness of roasted beetroots perfectly complements the creamy, tangy feta, creating a balance that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Plus, it’s super easy to make and can be enjoyed as a light meal or a side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds!

Mary Berry Beetroot And Feta Salad Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Mary Berry’s Beetroot and Feta Salad, you’ll need a combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients that will not only provide a burst of color but also complement each other with a balance of earthy, salty, and tangy flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients required:

1. Beetroots

   Fresh, raw beetroots are the star of this salad. They have an earthy sweetness that becomes richer when roasted.

   You can either buy pre-cooked beets or cook them yourself, but the flavor and texture from roasting fresh beets will elevate the dish. Beetroot is packed with nutrients, including folate, manganese, and antioxidants.

2. Feta Cheese

   Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, creamy contrast to the sweetness of the beetroot. Feta is traditionally made from sheep’s milk, though goat’s milk varieties are also available. It’s an excellent source of calcium and protein, and its crumbly texture allows it to blend seamlessly with the rest of the ingredients.

3. Olive Oil

   A good quality extra-virgin olive oil is essential for the salad’s dressing. Olive oil provides a fruity, mild richness and enhances the flavors of the salad. It’s also full of healthy fats and antioxidants that support heart health.

4. Lemon

   Fresh lemon juice brings a zesty acidity that balances out the richness of the feta and the earthiness of the beets. You’ll need both the zest and juice to really bring out the citrus flavor in the dressing.

5. Honey

   A touch of honey adds just the right amount of sweetness to the dressing, complementing the beetroot’s natural sugars. Honey also pairs beautifully with the acidity of lemon, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

6. Garlic

   A small clove of garlic will infuse the dressing with a mild, aromatic punch. Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and enhances the salad’s overall taste.

7. Herbs

   Fresh herbs like parsley or mint can be added to provide an extra layer of flavor. Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery taste, while mint adds a refreshing contrast. Both herbs elevate the dish with their bright, aromatic qualities.

8. Mixed Salad Leaves

   For the base of the salad, use a combination of mixed salad leaves, such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale. These greens add a mild, peppery flavor and a satisfying crunch to the salad.

Equipment Needed

The right equipment is essential to making this beetroot and feta salad efficiently and beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Baking Tray

   If you’re roasting fresh beetroots, you’ll need a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This ensures that the beets roast evenly and don’t stick to the tray. The parchment paper also makes cleanup much easier.

2. Aluminum Foil

   For roasting the beetroots, wrap them individually in aluminum foil. This helps to steam them and retain their moisture, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.

3. Sharp Knife and Cutting Board

   A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for slicing the roasted beets into bite-sized pieces. Precision in slicing ensures that all the ingredients blend well together when you assemble the salad.

4. Mixing Bowl

   A medium-sized mixing bowl is necessary to toss the salad greens and combine the dressing ingredients. You want enough room to gently toss without squashing any of the ingredients.

5. Whisk or Fork

   To mix the dressing, you can either use a whisk or a fork. The goal is to emulsify the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and garlic into a smooth, well-blended dressing.

6. Salad Servers or Tongs

   These are useful for serving and gently mixing the salad without bruising the delicate leaves or crushing the feta.

7. Grater (optional)

   If you prefer, you can use a microplane grater to zest the lemon finely, ensuring it distributes evenly throughout the dressing.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad

Now let’s break down the step-by-step process to make this delicious and refreshing salad:

1. Prepare the Beetroots

   Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the beetroots well, and then wrap them individually in aluminum foil.

   Place them on a baking tray and roast for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on their size. You’ll know they’re done when a knife easily slides into the beetroot. Allow them to cool slightly before peeling off the skin, which should come off easily once roasted.

2. Slice the Beetroots

   Once the beetroots are cool enough to handle, slice them into thin rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. Be mindful of their vibrant color-they can stain, so you might want to wear gloves or use a cutting board that you don’t mind getting discolored.

3. Prepare the Dressing

   In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of honey, and finely minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking by adding more honey or lemon.

4. Assemble the Salad

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the salad leaves (arugula, spinach, or a mix of your choice). Add in the roasted beetroot slices, crumbled feta, and any fresh herbs you’re using, such as parsley or mint. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the beets and feta are evenly distributed.

5. Dress the Salad

   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss once more to coat all the ingredients. The creamy feta, earthy beets, and tangy lemon dressing should meld together beautifully.

6. Serve

   Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. For an added touch, sprinkle some extra crumbled feta on top and a few more fresh herbs for garnish. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Expert Tips

1. Choose the Right Beetroots

   Look for beetroots that are firm and free from blemishes. Smaller beets are generally sweeter and more tender. If you’re roasting multiple beets, try to select ones that are similar in size for even cooking.

2. Roast the Beetroots Ahead of Time

   To save time, you can roast the beetroots a day in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Roasted beets can last for up to a week, so you can prepare them ahead of time for quick meal prep.

3. Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest

   Adding lemon zest to the dressing brings out the bright citrusy oils and enhances the flavor, creating a more aromatic and layered taste.

4. Customize the Salad

   While Mary Berry’s recipe is perfect on its own, feel free to customize it!

   Add toasted nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for extra crunch, or throw in some avocado for creaminess. If you love olives, a handful of Kalamata olives can add a savory, briny note to the salad.

5. Use Fresh Feta

   For the best flavor, use fresh feta cheese instead of pre-crumbled or packaged varieties. Fresh feta tends to have a creamier, milder taste that complements the beets more delicately.

Mary Berry’s Beetroot and Feta Salad is the epitome of simple, yet elegant, cooking. With its colorful ingredients and balanced flavors, it’s a dish that feels like a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients.

The earthy sweetness of the roasted beets pairs beautifully with the creamy, salty feta, while the zesty lemon dressing ties everything together. This salad is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect addition to any meal, whether as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a delightful offering for a party or gathering.

By following the recipe and expert tips, you can recreate Mary Berry’s Beetroot and Feta Salad with ease and confidence. Enjoy the process of preparing this dish, knowing you’re making something delicious, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad

Mary Berry’s Beetroot and Feta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the earthiness of beetroot with the creamy, tangy flavor of feta cheese. While the basic recipe is delightful on its own, there are plenty of ways to tweak it to suit your preferences or to incorporate other ingredients for added flair. Here are some easy recipe variations to elevate the salad:

1. Add Nuts for Crunch

   A handful of toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds can add a delightful crunch and contrast to the soft beetroot and creamy feta. Walnuts, in particular, pair wonderfully with beetroot because of their earthy flavor, while almonds offer a lighter, slightly sweet contrast.

2. Incorporate Fresh Herbs

   Fresh herbs like mint, basil, or dill can bring a burst of freshness to the salad. Mint, especially, complements beetroot beautifully, while basil adds a fragrant note. Dill, with its sharp flavor, enhances the earthiness of the beetroot and works particularly well if you choose a more robust feta.

3. Swap Feta for Goat Cheese

   If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try swapping feta for goat cheese. The tangy, creamy nature of goat cheese pairs just as well with beetroot, giving the salad a slightly milder, more decadent flavor. You can even opt for a flavored goat cheese, such as one with herbs or garlic, for an added depth of taste.

4. Add Roasted Vegetables

   If you want a heartier salad, consider roasting other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips alongside the beets. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness, adding another layer of flavor and texture. For a truly comforting variation, you can roast the beets themselves with a sprinkle of olive oil and a pinch of salt for extra richness.

5. Try a Citrus Twist

   A squeeze of lemon or orange juice can brighten up the salad and bring a citrusy zing to balance the richness of the feta. If you want to take it a step further, you can incorporate some zest from the lemon or orange, or even add citrus segments to the salad for extra juiciness.

6. Use a Different Dressing

   While Mary Berry’s salad dressing is simple and delightful, you can experiment with different dressings to change up the flavors. A balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, while a honey mustard vinaigrette can add a little more tang and sweetness. For a Mediterranean twist, a simple olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing with a pinch of oregano would complement the feta beautifully.

7. Add Grains for Texture

   For an added source of fiber and texture, try mixing in cooked quinoa, farro, or couscous. These grains will turn the salad into a more substantial meal, while still keeping the light, fresh character of the dish. They also absorb the salad dressing nicely, creating a cohesive flavor throughout.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Beetroot and feta salad is undoubtedly a dish best served fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, proper storage can help preserve its flavors and textures for later enjoyment. Here are some best practices for storing any leftover beetroot and feta salad:

1. Separate the Dressing

   To ensure the salad doesn’t become soggy, it’s best to store the dressing separately from the salad components. This way, you can dress the salad just before serving. If the dressing has already been mixed in, the feta might lose its creamy texture, and the beets could become too soft.

2. Airtight Containers

   Store the beetroot and feta salad in an airtight container to retain its freshness. Make sure to place it in the fridge, as beetroot and feta are both perishable ingredients. An airtight container helps minimize exposure to air, which can cause the salad to wilt faster or lose its vibrancy.

3. Avoid Storing with Herbs or Nuts

   If you’ve added delicate herbs or nuts to the salad, these should be stored separately as well. Fresh herbs, particularly mint and basil, lose their flavor and wilt quickly when stored with moist ingredients.

   Nuts can become soggy or lose their crunch when stored in a salad for too long. Keep them in separate small containers and add them back in just before serving.

4. Consume Within 2-3 Days

   While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be eaten within 2 to 3 days if stored properly in the fridge. The beetroot and feta may still taste fine, but the texture might change, especially if there’s any dressing mixed in. To avoid this, make small portions and only dress the salad as needed.

5. Reheating

   If you prefer your beetroot warm, you can reheat the leftovers, but do so gently to avoid overcooking the feta or making the beets too mushy. A quick zap in the microwave or a light reheating in a pan over low heat will suffice. However, many people prefer to eat this salad cold or at room temperature, which helps preserve its fresh, crisp flavors.

What Goes Well With Beetroot And Feta Salad

Beetroot and feta salad is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Its sweet, earthy flavors and creamy tanginess make it an excellent side or even a light main course. Here are some dishes that go wonderfully with beetroot and feta salad:

1. Grilled Meats

   The salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or steak. The earthy sweetness of the beets contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the grilled proteins, making it an ideal side dish for a barbecue or a casual dinner. For a Mediterranean twist, lamb chops with a lemony marinade or grilled chicken with herbs work particularly well.

2. Fish and Seafood

   Beetroot and feta salad is also a great complement to fish and seafood dishes. Grilled salmon, pan-seared tuna, or even a delicate white fish like cod can be served alongside this salad for a fresh, light meal. The combination of fish and salad provides a balance of flavors, with the creamy feta and sweet beets bringing out the richness of the seafood.

3. Flatbreads and Pita

   If you’re looking for something to scoop up the salad or serve alongside it, try pairing it with flatbreads or warm pita. The slightly crispy texture of the bread complements the soft, creamy elements of the salad, and you can even use it to create a Mediterranean-style wrap with other ingredients like hummus or tzatziki.

4. Roasted Vegetables

   Another great pairing with beetroot and feta salad is roasted vegetables. Try serving it alongside roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty, healthy meal. The caramelization from the roasting process adds depth of flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the beetroot.

5. Grain Bowls

   If you’re aiming for a more filling meal, consider serving beetroot and feta salad as part of a grain bowl. Quinoa, couscous, or farro provide a solid base, and the addition of salad on top creates a well-rounded, satisfying meal. You can even drizzle some extra dressing over the grain for added flavor.

6. Cold Meats and Cheeses

   For a light lunch or picnic spread, beetroot and feta salad pairs wonderfully with a selection of cold meats and cheeses. Prosciutto, salami, or roast beef, combined with some tangy olives and crusty bread, will create a balanced and delicious meal.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Beetroot and Feta Salad is a simple yet elegant dish that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows for endless variations, from adding nuts or fresh herbs to experimenting with different cheeses and dressings. Whether you serve it as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables, or as the star of a grain bowl, it’s a dish that can be tailored to suit any occasion or personal preference.

Storing leftovers is easy if you follow best practices such as separating the dressing and herbs from the salad, and consuming it within a few days. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your meals or add a healthy, flavorful touch to your dinner table, this beetroot and feta salad is sure to be a winner.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad?

The main ingredients in Mary Berry’s beetroot and feta salad include cooked beetroots, feta cheese, mixed salad leaves, and a simple vinaigrette dressing made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, and seasoning.

Can I Use Canned Beetroot For Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad?

Yes, you can use canned beetroot as a convenient option for this salad. However, fresh cooked beetroot will give a richer flavor and texture.

What Type Of Feta Cheese Is Best For This Salad?

It is recommended to use traditional Greek feta cheese for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. You can also use a reduced-fat version if you prefer, but the taste may differ slightly.

Can I Add Other Vegetables To Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad?

Yes, you can customize the salad by adding extra vegetables such as arugula, rocket, or radishes for added crunch and flavor.

How Should I Prepare The Beetroots For The Salad?

To prepare the beetroots, peel and cook them until they are tender. You can either boil or roast them. After cooking, slice them into thin rounds or wedges before adding to the salad.

Is The Vinaigrette Dressing Optional In Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad?

While the vinaigrette dressing enhances the flavor of the salad, you can skip it or substitute it with a store-bought dressing if you prefer. However, the homemade dressing adds a fresh and tangy element.

Can Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the dressing and mix the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.

Is Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as long as the feta cheese used is made with vegetable rennet (some feta cheeses are made with animal rennet).

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad Gluten-free?

The salad is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no wheat or gluten-based ingredients. Just make sure the vinaigrette dressing is free from any gluten-containing additives.

How Many Servings Does Mary Berry’s Beetroot And Feta Salad Recipe Make?

The recipe typically serves 4 people, making it perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a larger meal.