Beets Recipe

Prepare beets

Wash beets thoroughly to remove dirt. Trim tops and roots. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the beets if you prefer (for young beets you can leave skins on after scrubbing).

Shave the beets

Using a mandoline set to a thin setting or a very sharp chef's knife, shave the beets into paper-thin rounds. Work carefully and keep slices uniform. Place shaved beets in a large bowl as you work to avoid browning.

Light cure (optional but recommended)

Sprinkle 1 tsp fine sea salt evenly over the shaved beets and gently toss. Let sit at room temperature for 8–10 minutes to draw out a little moisture and soften slightly, then drain any released liquid and pat lightly with paper towel.

Combine dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/2 cup fresh orange juice, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp honey (or agave), 1 tsp white wine vinegar, grated lemon and orange zest, and 1/2 tsp sea salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper until the honey dissolves.

Emulsify

Slowly whisk in 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil until the dressing becomes slightly thickened and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning — add a pinch more salt or a little more honey if needed. Stir in 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives.

Dress beets

Pour about half of the dressing over the shaved beets and gently toss to coat. Let sit 5 minutes so flavors meld. Reserve the remaining dressing to drizzle when plating.

Assemble

Mound the dressed shaved beets on a serving platter or divide onto plates. Tear or spoon the stracciatella cheese over the center of the beets in generous portions so its creamy curds can mingle with the beets.

Garnish and finish

Scatter 1/2 cup toasted, roughly chopped walnuts or pistachios over the salad and add microgreens or baby arugula if using. Drizzle the remaining dressing sparingly around and finish with 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil and a light grind of black pepper.

Serve

Serve immediately so the stracciatella retains its creaminess against the crisp, citrusy beets. Leftovers can be kept refrigerated for up to 1 day; dress beets just before serving to preserve texture.