Winter Jeweled Salad

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400F. Place beets in 1/2" water, cover and roast for 40-50 minutes or until fork- tender. Place the pecans in a baking dish and toast in the same oven as beets for about 8 minutes (watch this. Nuts go from toasted to burnt quickly!).

Step 2

While the beets are roasting, make the dressing and chop the pecans, once cooled.

Step 3

Once the beets are out of the oven, allow to cool until they can be handled. Cut the stem and tail off. There are two ways to approach beet peeling. I use a vegetable peeler and gently remove the skin. Some simply slip the skins off. Your choice. Once the skins are removed, slice the beets into discs or cut into matchsticks.

Step 4

In a small bowl whisk the orange juice, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, shallot, mustard and salt together until an emulsion is formed. Taste and adjust ingredients as needed.

Step 5

For a composed salad, use a shallow serving bowl or platter. Spread the greens in the serving dish. Drizzle the salad dressing, a few tablespoons at a time to taste, over the entire salad right before serving as the dressing will wilt the greens over time. Toss well. Evenly distribute the beets, arils, and orange pieces over the salad. Sprinkle the green onions, chopped pecans and optional goat cheese over the top. Serve immediately.