Beet Salad with Shallot-Balsamic Reduction Dressing Gluten-Free Recipe
One of the more exciting beet dishes we’ve tried starts with slow-roasting beets with salt and thyme. A coating of reduced balsamic-shallot syrup adds tangy-sweetness that’s contrasted by optional sharp-cheese shavings. A sprinkle of buckwheat groats, flax seed, and walnuts adds crunch, while orange segments, ideally “supremed” (cut from their membrane), round out the symphony of flavors and textures in this standout beet salad with shallot-balsamic reduction dressing dish.
Beet Salad with Shallot-Balsamic Reduction Dressing Gluten-Free Recipe
Servings 6
Ingredients
- 2-1/2 pounds red beets
- 12 thyme sprigs
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 4 ounces shallot sliced (about 3/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup walnut pieces
- 3 tablespoons buckwheat groats (optional)
- 2 teaspoons flax seeds (optional)
- 4 ounces São Jorge cheese or other sharp aged cow’s-milk cheese, shaved or grated (optional)
- 2 oranges cut into segments
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with enough aluminum foil to double over itself. Place the beets in the middle of the foil, scatter the thyme and 4 teaspoons salt over them, then wrap the beets tightly in the foil. Bake until easily pierced with a fork but still slightly firm, 1 hour to 90 minutes, depending on size. Let cool. Unwrap, remove, discard the skins, and cut the beets into bite-size pieces.
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Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, mix together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the shallot slices, turn the heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally, until all the vinegar evaporates, about 1 hour. (Don’t worry if the oil and vinegar separate.) Set aside.
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Meanwhile, spread the walnuts in one layer on a baking sheet and toast until lightly browned, 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool.
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In a frying pan over medium heat, toast the buckwheat, stirring occasionally, until it gains some color, about 4 minutes. Let cool.
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Mix the shallot-balsamic dressing to combine. In a bowl, toss the beets with just enough of the dressing to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with the buckwheat, flax seeds, walnuts, and cheese, garnish with the orange segments, and serve.
Photography Fabrice Demoulin
