Balsamic Golden Beet & Lentil Salad

June 24, 2021
Golden beets are so vibrant and beautiful that I actually enjoy sitting down and preparing them for a meal. When you cut them open, they reveal a mesmerizing spiral pattern that is beyond pleasing to stare into. Right now is peak beet season and I’m so glad to see these popping up all over the markets again.

These beets are slightly sweeter than their red counterparts but they still have an earthy flavor. Lentils are the most earthy-tasting food to me so I knew they would pair perfectly together. The fresh mint and juicy pomegranate add some zest to this salad to bring it alive. This can be eaten as meal for lunch or would make a nice side dish for dinner.
beet lentil salad in a white dish against a brown and black background

Balsamic Golden Beet & Lentil Salad

Recipe Type: Allergen Free Detox Salads
utensils YIELDS 3–4 servings
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  • 2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup dried lentils
  • 2 cups golden beets, peeled and diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup diced shallot
  • handful fresh mint
  • seeds from 1 pomegranate
  • 1/4 cup chopped almonds
  • For the dressing:
  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp balsamic dressing
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
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Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Toss the beets in a mixing bowl with the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour into a baking sheet and bake for 15 min, flip, and bake for 15 more min, until they can be pierced with a fork.

3. While the beets are roasting, prepare your lentils. Add the lentils to a small pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer and let cook until lentils are soft. Strain and set aside.

4. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients for the dressing.

5. Remove beets from oven and strain lentils. Toss beets and lentils together in a large mixing bowl.

6. Add the pomegranate, shallots, almonds, mint, and dressing and mix well before serving.

Also by Lauren: Vegan Chickpea Flour Frittata Muffins

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Photo: Lauren Sacerdote


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Lauren is a homebody who likes to spend time with her cat, explore new ideas in the kitchen, relax in the sun with a good book, and promote healthy living to friends and family.

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