Salads are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and boost your overall health. One vegetable that often gets overlooked in salads is beetroot. This vibrant root vegetable is not only nutritious, but it also adds a beautiful pop of color to any salad. However, many people are intimidated by the idea of using beetroot in their salads. If you’re one of them, fear not! We’ve got some tips for you to make delicious and easy salads with beetroot. 
 
1. Choose the right type of beetroot 
 
Before you start making your salad, it’s essential to choose the right type of beetroot. You can either use fresh beetroot or canned beetroot. Fresh beetroot has a more intense flavor and is crunchier, while canned beetroot is softer and has a slightly sweeter taste. If you’re short on time, canned beetroot is a convenient option. However, if you want to experience the full flavor of beetroot, it’s best to use fresh ones. 
 
2. Roast or steam the beetroot 
 
Beetroot can be eaten raw, but roasting or steaming it brings out its natural sweetness and makes it more tender. To roast beetroot, preheat your oven to 400°F and wrap the beetroot in foil. Place it on a baking sheet and roast for 40-50 minutes, or until tender. To steam beetroot, peel and chop them into small cubes, and place them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes. 
 
3. Pair it with the right ingredients 
 
Beetroot has a slightly earthy and sweet taste, so it pairs well with ingredients that have a tangy or salty flavor. Some great options include feta cheese, goat cheese, walnuts, arugula, and citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits. You can also add some crunch to your salad by adding sliced cucumbers or radishes

4. Experiment with different dressings 
 
The dressing you use can make or break your beetroot salad. Since beetroot has a strong flavor, it’s best to use a light and simple dressing. A classic vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard is a perfect choice. You can also try a honey mustard dressing or a combination of lemon juice and honey. 
 
5. Use it in different types of salads 
 
Beetroot can be used in a variety of salads, from traditional green salads to grain salads. For a simple green salad, toss together some mixed greens, roasted beetroot, goat cheese, and a simple vinaigrette. For a heartier option, try a beetroot and quinoa salad with feta cheese, cucumbers, and a lemony dressing. You can also add beetroot to a pasta salad for a burst of color and flavor. 
 
6. Add it to your smoothies 
 
If you’re not a fan of beetroot in your salads, you can still reap its health benefits by adding it to your smoothies. Beetroot adds a beautiful pink color and a slightly sweet taste to smoothies. You can blend it with other fruits like strawberries, bananas, or pineapple for a delicious and nutritious drink. 
 
7. Don’t be afraid to mix and match 
 
The best part about salads is that you can mix and match ingredients to suit your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures when using beetroot in your salads. You can add some roasted chickpeas for a protein boost or some avocado for a creamy texture. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and be creative! 
 
In conclusion, beetroot is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can add a unique twist to your salads. By following these tips, you can create delicious and healthy salads with beetroot that will impress your taste buds and your guests. So next time you’re making a salad, don’t forget to include this underrated root vegetable