For a colorful and elegant side dish, this Thanksgiving Beet & Goat Cheese Salad is always a winner. I remember preparing it one Thanksgiving when I wanted something vibrant to brighten the table—the deep red beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy nuts brought balance to all the heavier dishes. It’s earthy, tangy, and refreshing, making it the perfect salad to complement turkey, stuffing, and all your holiday favorites.
Ingredients
4 medium beets, roasted and sliced
6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
1/3 cup candied walnuts or pecans
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1 apple or pear, thinly sliced
Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Roast beets at 400°F (200°C) for 40–50 minutes until tender. Peel and slice once cooled. Arrange mixed greens on a large serving platter. Layer with roasted beet slices, goat cheese, walnuts, red onion, and apple slices. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Drizzle over salad just before serving and toss lightly.
Watch the step-by-step video in our video section.
Substitutions
Swap goat cheese with feta or blue cheese for stronger flavor. Use pears instead of apples for a sweeter bite. Replace candied nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. Try golden beets for a milder, less earthy flavor.
Equipment
Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Whisk or fork
Knife and cutting board
Serving platter
Storage
Refrigerator: Store salad without dressing for up to 1 day.
Dressing: Keep in a jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Serving tip: Add dressing just before serving to keep greens crisp and fresh.
Top Tips
Roast beets ahead of time for convenience. Slice apples right before serving to prevent browning. Layer ingredients for a beautiful presentation, then drizzle dressing at the last moment. Garnish with extra goat cheese and herbs for a festive finish.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked beets? Yes, they save time and work well in this salad.
Is this salad vegetarian? Yes, and it can be vegan if you use dairy-free cheese.
Can I make this ahead? Prep all ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.
What pairs best with this salad? It complements roasted meats, turkey, or ham beautifully.