Golden Beet and Citrus Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts and Tarragon Dressing - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

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)

Let’s talk about salads that make your taste buds throw a mini party. This Golden Beet and Citrus Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts and Tarragon Dressing is the ray of sunshine your table has been waiting for. Believe me, this isn’t your average “toss some lettuce on a plate” situation—oh no! It’s a bold, vibrant celebration of color and flavor. Golden beets, glistening like tiny nuggets of sunshine, come together with juicy citrus slices for a sweet and tangy combination. Add in some toasted hazelnuts for a nutty crunch, drizzle on the tarragon dressing, and you’ve got a dish that is as fancy as a trip to a Parisian café but so simple to make at home. I’m practically beaming just thinking about it!

Golden Beet and Citrus Salad with Toasted Hazelnuts and Tarragon Dressing Recipe

What makes this recipe so special? Each flavor sings its own tune, but together they create a harmonious culinary chorus. The golden beets are naturally earthy and sweet, and roasting them enhances that sweetness even more. The citrus—think oranges and maybe a surprise grapefruit—adds a lively zing that brightens every bite. Toasted hazelnuts? Oh, those bring a roasted nuttiness that’s a little unexpected in a salad but completely welcome. And the pièce de résistance has to be the tarragon dressing. Tarragon has this subtle anise-like flavor that just pops when paired with the citrus and beets. It’s all tied together with olive oil, a hint of Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey to create a dressing that might just make you want to keep a jar of it in your fridge at all times.

If you’re looking for a way to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this salad is the answer. Serve it as a starter alongside a grilled fish dish or pair it with some crusty bread and cheese for a light lunch. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some peppery arugula or crumble a little goat cheese on top for added oomph. Plus, did I mention how Instagram-worthy it is? The colors alone could brighten the gloomiest day. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and let this salad transport you to a world of fresh, vibrant flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—or the recipe!

Keywords: golden beet salad recipe, citrus beet hazelnut salad, tarragon dressing for salads, roasted beet citrus salad, unique salad recipes with nuts, bright and fresh salad ideas, golden beet citrus side dish

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 6

    Drizzle the tarragon dressing evenly over the salad. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with more salt or pepper.

  7. 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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