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Fresh Zesty Pickled Beet Salad Recipe with Feta and Walnuts

fresh zesty pickled beet salad - featured image

A quick and easy salad combining tangy pickled beets, creamy feta, and crunchy toasted walnuts with a bright lemon dressing. Perfect for busy evenings or as a fresh side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups pickled beets, sliced or cubed
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled or in small chunks
  • ½ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Toast the walnuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Watch closely to avoid burning. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Slice the pickled beets if not pre-sliced into bite-sized cubes or thin wedges.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a mixing bowl, combine the beets, feta, toasted walnuts, chopped parsley, and red onion if using.
  5. Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat evenly.
  6. Let it rest: Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to let flavors meld.
  7. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnish with extra toasted walnuts and parsley if desired.

Notes

Toast walnuts carefully to avoid bitterness. Adjust dressing sweetness or acidity based on the tanginess of pickled beets. Let salad rest 10-15 minutes for best flavor. For dairy-free, substitute feta with marinated tofu or vegan cheese. Store salad in airtight container up to 3 days; add fresh walnuts before serving leftovers.

Nutrition

Keywords: pickled beet salad, feta salad, walnut salad, quick salad recipe, easy side dish, healthy salad, zesty beet salad