Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 3 medium beets, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 3 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Whipped Ricotta:
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt, to taste
For the Vinaigrette:
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Vegetables
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Place the diced beets on one baking sheet and the diced sweet potatoes on the other. Drizzle each with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the vegetables to coat evenly and spread them out in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Toast the Hazelnuts
- While the vegetables are roasting, heat a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the hazelnuts to the dry skillet and toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Transfer the toasted hazelnuts to a clean kitchen towel and rub them together to remove most of the skins.
- Roughly chop the hazelnuts and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Ricotta
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, honey, and a pinch of salt.
- Use a hand mixer or a whisk to whip the ricotta until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Step 4: Make the Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the vinaigrette is emulsified.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- On a large serving platter or individual plates, spread a generous layer of whipped ricotta.
- Arrange the roasted beets and sweet potatoes on top of the ricotta, then scatter the mixed greens over the roasted vegetables.
- Sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts and chopped parsley over the top.
- Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Add additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 340
- Sodium: 220mg
- Protein: 8g