Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad with Avocado Dressing: A Heart-Healthy Recipe

If you’re looking for a colorful, refreshing, and nutrient-packed dish, this Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad with Avocado Dressing is exactly what you need. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a dinner side dish, or even as a healthy potluck option. The bright citrus flavors combined with sweet roasted beets and a creamy avocado dressing make this salad a wholesome and flavorful choice for any day.

What is Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad?

This salad is a vibrant mix of roasted beets, juicy orange and grapefruit segments, and fresh greens, all topped with a creamy avocado dressing. It’s not just beautiful to look at—each ingredient contributes unique flavor and nutrition. The sweetness of beets balances the tang of citrus fruit, while the avocado dressing adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Health Benefits & Precautions

This Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad is packed with nutritional benefits:

Beets

Beets are high in fiber, vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants. They support heart health, improve blood pressure, and may boost exercise performance thanks to their high nitrate content.

Citrus Fruits

Oranges and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like flavonoids. Regular consumption supports your immune system, reduces inflammation, and improves heart health.

Avocado

Avocado adds a delicious, creamy texture while bringing healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, and fiber into the mix. These nutrients help maintain cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular health.

Precautions: While this salad is generally safe and healthy for everyone, individuals taking medication for blood pressure or those on potassium-restricted diets should eat beets and avocado in moderation. Also, grapefruit can interact with certain medications, so check with your healthcare provider if you’re on any prescriptions.

Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad with Avocado Dressing Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 medium-sized beets, peeled and cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 oranges, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
• 6 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese (optional)

For the Avocado Dressing:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2–4 tablespoons water (to thin dressing if needed)

Instructions

1. Roast the Beets: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss beet wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Let cool.
2. Make the Dressing: While the beets are roasting, prepare the avocado dressing. In a blender or food processor, add the avocado, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl or platter, arrange the greens. Top with roasted beets, orange slices, and grapefruit segments. Sprinkle with chopped nuts and feta cheese if using.
4. Drizzle & Serve: Spoon or drizzle the avocado dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently if desired, and enjoy this refreshing, nutritious dish!

Tips and Variations

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or quinoa to make it a complete meal.
• Make Ahead: Roast the beets and make the dressing a day ahead to save time when assembling.
• Swap Citrus: Try blood oranges or mandarins for an extra pop of flavor and color.

This Roasted Beet and Citrus Salad with Avocado Dressing is delicious, eye-catching, and full of ingredients that support a healthy heart and overall wellness. Whether you’re meal prepping or planning a special meal, it’s a satisfying dish that blends taste and nutrition beautifully.