Roasted Beet & Red Cabbage Salad
Earthy roasted beets meet crisp, vibrant red cabbage in this stunning salad. Tossed in a bright citrus vinaigrette and finished with a sprinkle of toasted nuts and fresh herbs, it is as beautiful as it is delicious—a perfect side for any gathering or a light lunch on its own.
For 4 servings
- prep
Preheat the oven and prepare the beets.
1.Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).2.Peel the beets and cut them into 1-inch cubes.3.Toss the beet cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. - roast · ~35 min
Roast the beets until tender.
1.Spread the beets in a single layer on a baking sheet.2.Roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway, until fork-tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.3.Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.TIPThe beets are done when a knife slides through easily with no resistance. - prep
Prepare the red cabbage.
While the beets roast, remove any wilted outer leaves from the red cabbage, cut it into quarters, and thinly shred it. Place the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl.
- roast · ~3 min
Toast the walnuts.
In a small dry pan over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for 2-3 minutes, shaking frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove immediately to a plate to stop the cooking.
TIPWatch the walnuts carefully—they can go from toasted to burnt in seconds. - mix
Make the citrus vinaigrette.
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, orange juice, and lemon juice until well combined.
- assemble
Assemble the salad.
1.Add the roasted beets to the bowl with the shredded red cabbage.2.Pour the citrus vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.3.Season with black pepper and toss again.TIPToss gently so the beets don't break apart—you want distinct maroon-stained cabbage ribbons. - garnish
Finish with toasted walnuts and fresh parsley.
1.Scatter the toasted walnuts over the salad.2.Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.3.Serve immediately or let it sit for 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Wear kitchen gloves when peeling beets to avoid staining your hands.
- 2For even roasting, cut beets into uniform 1-inch cubes.
- 3Shred cabbage as thinly as possible for the best texture contrast.
- 4Let roasted beets cool slightly before tossing to prevent wilting the cabbage.
- 5Toast walnuts in a dry pan and watch closely—they burn in seconds.
- 6Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the cabbage crisp.
- 7Leftovers keep well for 1 day; store dressing separately to avoid sogginess.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vinaigrette swap
Replace orange juice with balsamic vinegar for a tangy, deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted beets and walnuts.
cheese additionCheese addition
Crumble feta or goat cheese over the finished salad for a creamy, salty contrast that complements the sweet beets and crunchy nuts.
grain bowlGrain bowl
Serve the salad over cooked quinoa or farro to turn it into a hearty, filling lunch or light dinner with extra protein and fiber.
herb swapHerb swap
Substitute fresh dill or mint for parsley to give the salad a brighter, more aromatic profile that works especially well in summer.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Both beets and red cabbage are packed with anthocyanins and betalains, which help combat oxidative stress and support overall cellular health.
Good Source of Fiber
Red cabbage and walnuts provide dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and helping you feel full longer.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C Boost
The fresh orange and lemon juice in the vinaigrette, along with the red cabbage, deliver a generous dose of immune-supporting vitamin C.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but the flavor will be milder. Roasting concentrates sweetness and adds caramelization that pre-cooked beets lack.







