Description
This delightful recipe showcases the beauty of beets, pairing them perfectly with creamy goat cheese and a bright, nutty vinaigrette infused with the warmth of fresh thyme.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 small to medium beets
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 4 oz goat cheese
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup walnut oil (or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by washing the beets thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Coat them lightly with your choice of walnut oil or olive oil, which adds flavor during roasting. Wrap each beet in foil, ensuring they are sealed to lock in moisture. Arrange the wrapped beets on a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Roasting time can vary between 60 to 90 minutes depending on the size of the beets; you’ll know they’re done when they are fork-tender. Afterward, remove them from the oven and let them cool before peeling.
- Once the beets are cool enough to handle, begin peeling them. The skins should come off easily; you can use a paper towel to help rub them off if needed. After peeling, slice the beets into rounds of about ¼ to ½ inch thickness. The size of these rounds not only affects presentation but also the overall texture when stacked, so aim for uniformity.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the chopped walnuts. Toast them, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant. This process enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the final dish. Keep a close eye on them, as they can quickly go from toasted to burnt.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, walnut oil, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined. This vinaigrette will not only serve to dress the beet stacks but will also provide a zesty flavor contrast that unites all elements of the dish.
- To build your stacks, take a slice of roasted beet and place it on a serving plate. Crumble some goat cheese on top, followed by another slice of beet. Repeat this layering process, creating as many layers as desired. Finally, drizzle the finished stacks with the thyme vinaigrette and sprinkle with the toasted walnuts and additional thyme for garnish. These stacks can be enjoyed warm or chilled, making them incredibly versatile!
Notes
Fresh beets are essential for the best flavor—opt for local or organic if possible. Be sure to toast the walnuts right before serving to maintain their crispness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Protein: 10 g