Beet Salad with Spinach, Mandarin Oranges & Feta

There’s something about a fresh, vibrant salad that feels like a celebration of all the good things—crisp greens, juicy citrus, and the richness of feta. Beet Salad with Spinach, Mandarin Oranges & Feta is one of those dishes that feels bright and refreshing, while still offering all the cozy comfort of a perfectly balanced meal. The earthy sweetness of the beets, the tang of the feta, and the burst of mandarin oranges come together in a harmony that’s both satisfying and exciting for your taste buds.

Whether you’re making it for a simple lunch or serving it as a side at your next dinner party, this salad is going to steal the spotlight. It’s packed with flavor, texture, and a pop of color that’ll brighten up your plate—and your day. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Beet Salad with Spinach, Mandarin Oranges & Feta

Fresh and Vibrant: The bright oranges and earthy beets create the perfect balance of flavors.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, this salad is as good for you as it is delicious.
Simple Yet Elegant: Just a handful of ingredients, but they come together to create something pretty special.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a dinner party, this salad works every time.
Versatile: You can add nuts, swap the cheese, or even make it vegan with a few tweaks!

Ingredients in Beet Salad with Spinach, Mandarin Oranges & Feta

Spinach

Fresh and tender spinach forms the base of this salad. It’s light, nutrient-rich, and just the right amount of leafy goodness.

Beets

Roasted or boiled, beets bring a rich, earthy sweetness that’s the heart of this dish.

Mandarin Oranges

Juicy and slightly tangy, the mandarins provide a refreshing contrast to the other ingredients.

Feta Cheese

Salty, creamy feta adds that perfect tangy bite and richness to balance out the sweetness of the beets and oranges.

Red Onion

Thinly sliced, red onion adds a mild sharpness and a touch of color.

Olive Oil

A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil ties everything together and adds a silky texture.

Balsamic Vinegar

Just a splash of balsamic vinegar for a little zing and depth of flavor.

Salt and Pepper

Simple seasoning to bring all the flavors together.

Instructions

Roast or Boil the Beets

If you’re using fresh beets, roast them at 400°F for about 45 minutes, or boil them for 30 minutes until fork-tender. Once they’ve cooled, peel and slice them into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the Spinach and Mandarins

Wash the spinach thoroughly and dry it. Peel the mandarins, removing any pith, and separate the segments.

Slice the Red Onion

Thinly slice the red onion and set it aside. If you’re not a fan of raw onion, give it a quick soak in cold water to mellow out the flavor.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the spinach, roasted beets, mandarin oranges, red onion, and feta. Gently toss to combine.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Toss gently again, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a bit to chill before serving. This salad is best fresh but can hold up for a day or two in the fridge.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 180
Protein: 4g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 18g | Sugar: 12g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 400mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes (if roasting beets)
Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve Beet Salad with Spinach, Mandarin Oranges & Feta

On Its Own: It’s hearty enough to be a meal by itself—perfect for lunch.
With Grilled Chicken or Salmon: This salad pairs beautifully with protein for a full meal.
With Toasted Nuts: Add a sprinkle of toasted walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
As a Side: Serve it as a side to grilled meats or pasta for a refreshing contrast.
With a Light Dressing: Keep it simple with a light vinaigrette if you prefer less balsamic flavor.

Additional Tips

Beet Prep: If you want to save time, buy pre-cooked beets from the store. They’re ready to go!
Swap the Cheese: If you’re not into feta, goat cheese or blue cheese would also be amazing.
Go Nuts: Add some toasted walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Dress Last Minute: If you’re serving this ahead of time, dress it just before serving to keep everything crisp.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned mandarin oranges?
A1: Sure! Just be sure to drain them well. Fresh mandarin oranges will give you a brighter flavor, but canned works in a pinch.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked beets?
A2: Absolutely! Pre-cooked beets are a huge time-saver—just slice them up and you’re ready to go.

Q3: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A3: You can prep the beets and veggies in advance, but it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh.

Q4: Can I make this salad vegan?
A4: Yes! Simply swap the feta for a vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether, and you’ve got a light, plant-based salad.

Q5: How long will leftovers last?
A5: Leftovers will stay good for about 1-2 days in the fridge, but the spinach may wilt over time.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables?
A6: Definitely! Roasted sweet potatoes or carrots would make a great addition.

Q7: Can I make this salad spicy?
A7: Add a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle some sriracha over the top for a spicy kick.

Q8: What’s the best way to roast beets?
A8: Wrap beets in foil and roast them at 400°F for about 45 minutes. They’ll be tender and easy to peel.

Q9: Can I add avocado to this salad?
A9: Yes! Sliced avocado would add a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.

Q10: Can I use another type of vinegar?
A10: Yes, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar would also work nicely if you don’t have balsamic.

Conclusion

Beet Salad with Spinach, Mandarin Oranges & Feta is a perfect balance of earthy, sweet, and tangy flavors that you’ll want to make again and again. It’s fresh, vibrant, and feels like a treat without being too heavy—just a gorgeous dish that brings the best out of simple ingredients. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together, you’ll be feeling like a salad-making pro in no time. Enjoy!

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