Roasted-Beet and Citrus Salad With Ricotta and Pistachio Vinaigrette Ingredients: 2 lbs (1 kg) beets, unpeeled, greens removed, scrubbed clean 1/4 cup (60ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided 2 sprigs thyme or rosemary (optional) Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/4 cup toasted shelled pistachios, lightly crushed 1 grapefruit, cut into suprèmes or wedges, with 1 tbsp (15ml) juice reserved 1 orange, cut into suprèmes or wedges, with 1 tbsp (15ml) juice reserved 2 tsp (10ml) lemon juice 1 small shallot, finely minced 2 tbsp fresh parsley, tarragon, or chervil, minced 1 tbsp (15ml) honey 1 cup (200g) fresh ricotta Directions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a pouch by folding a 12- by 24-inch sheet of aluminum foil in half and crimping two edges to form a pocket. Toss beets with 1 tbsp olive oil, thyme or rosemary (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Place in the foil pouch, seal, and set on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast for about 1 1/2 hours, or until a toothpick easily pierces the beets. Remove from the oven and let cool. Once cool, peel the beets by rubbing the skins under cold running water. Cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks. (Beets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days if preparing in advance.) Lightly crush the pistachios using a mortar and pestle or by chopping with a knife. Reserve half for garnish. In a large bowl, combine the grapefruit juice, orange juice, lemon juice, shallot, herbs, and honey. Whisk to blend, then slowly add the remaining 3 tbsp olive oil, whisking continuously to emulsify. Season with salt and pepper to taste. To serve, toss the beets and citrus wedges with the pistachio vinaigrette. (If using red beets, toss separately to prevent staining other ingredients.) Spread half of the ricotta on a serving platter, top with the dressed beets and citrus, and dollop with the remaining ricotta. Garnish with reserved pistachios and serve. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 6 servings This Roasted-Beet and Citrus Salad with Ricotta and Pistachio Vinaigrette is a delightful blend of seasonal flavors and textures. Tender roasted beets are paired with bright citrus segments, creating a balance of earthy and tangy notes. The creamy ricotta adds a luscious layer, while the pistachio vinaigrette brings a unique nutty depth that ties the dish together beautifully. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners, this salad brings a vibrant, rustic appeal to the table. The combination of colors and flavors creates a visually stunning presentation that’s as satisfying to the taste buds as it is to the eyes. Ideal for autumn, this salad is both refreshing and comforting, making it a wonderful addition to any festive meal.
