
Golden Beet and Citrus Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts and Tarragon Dressing
Ready to brighten up your plate? This Golden Beet and Citrus Salad is a symphony of flavors—sweet beets, zesty citrus, nutty hazelnuts, and a tarragon dressing that's utterly irresistible. It's fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-delicious. Let’s toss up some sunshine together!
4.3 out of 5 (3 ratings)

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Cuisine
Modern European
Ingredients
- •3 medium golden beets, peeled and sliced
- •2 oranges, segmented
- •1 grapefruit, segmented
- •1/4 cup hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- •2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
- •3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- •1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- •1 teaspoon honey
- •Salt to taste
- •Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel the golden beets and slice them into 1/4-inch rounds. Place the slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized. Let them cool.
- 2
While the beets are roasting, prepare the citrus. Using a sharp knife, segment the oranges and grapefruit by cutting away the peel and pith, then carefully slicing between the membranes to release the segments. Set the citrus segments aside.
- 3
Toast the hazelnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly golden. Let them cool, then roughly chop.
- 4
In a small bowl, make the dressing by whisking together the extra-virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, and fresh tarragon. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- 5
Assemble the salad on a serving platter. Layer the roasted beet slices with the citrus segments. Sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts over the top.
- 6
Drizzle the tarragon dressing evenly over the salad. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt or pepper.
- 7
Serve immediately as a colorful and refreshing starter or side dish. Optionally, garnish with additional tarragon or add arugula or goat cheese for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information
Calories
240 calories
Protein
4g
Carbs
22g
Fat
16g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use red beets instead of golden beets?
A: Yes, red beets can be used as a substitute for golden beets. However, keep in mind that red beets have a stronger, earthier flavor and will stain the citrus and other ingredients with their red pigment, which may affect the presentation of the salad.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Roast the beets, segment the citrus, and toast the hazelnuts up to 1 day in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to ensure freshness and the best texture.
Q: What can I use instead of hazelnuts?
A: If you don’t have hazelnuts, you can substitute them with other nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios. For a nut-free option, use toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh tarragon?
A: If fresh tarragon isn’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon in the dressing. Alternatively, fresh parsley or basil can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the citrus may release extra juice over time, so you might want to drain any excess liquid before serving again.
Q: Can I add any extra ingredients to this salad?
A: Absolutely! For added flavor and texture, you can include arugula, spinach, or mixed greens as a base. Crumbled goat cheese or feta pairs wonderfully with the tangy citrus and earthy beets. If you want more sweetness, add pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries.
Q: Why are my roasted beets too soft or mushy?
A: If your roasted beets turned out too soft, it may be because they were sliced too thinly or roasted for too long. Ensure your beet slices are about 1/4-inch thick and check for doneness at the 25-minute mark. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape.
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