Apple & Beet Salad Recipe

1. Toast and Candy Pecans

Place a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add pecan halves and toast, stirring, for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add granulated sugar and the butter; stir continuously as the sugar melts and coats the pecans, 2–3 minutes. Once the pecans are glossy and the sugar is dissolved, transfer to a sheet of parchment paper, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, and spread into a single layer to cool. Break apart when cool. Total time: ~8 minutes.

2. Prepare and Roast Beets

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim beet greens close to the root and scrub beets clean. Wrap each beet loosely in foil and place on a baking sheet. Roast for 45–60 minutes, until a paring knife slides in easily. Let cool until safe to handle, then peel with fingers or a paring knife and cut into 1/2-inch wedges. Alternatively, boil whole beets in salted water for 30–45 minutes until tender.

3. Prepare Apple

While beets roast, core and thinly slice the apple into 1/8–1/4-inch slices or bite-sized wedges. Toss apple slices with 1 tsp lemon juice and 1 tsp olive oil and a pinch of salt to prevent browning and add flavor.

4. Make Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the minced shallot, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon, honey, lemon juice, and olive oil. Whisk until smooth. Season with 1 tsp sea salt and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper; taste and adjust acidity or sweetness as desired (add more honey or vinegar in 1/4 tsp increments). Chill briefly while assembling the salad to let flavors meld.

5. In a large bowl, place 4 cups of mixed salad greens. Add the roasted beet wedges and dressed apple slices. Crumble the goat cheese over the top in small chunks or use a spoon to create quenelles. Sprinkle the candied pecans evenly over the salad.

6. Drizzle about half of the creamy shallot dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat; add more dressing to taste (reserve any leftover dressing for serving). Adjust seasoning with a small pinch of salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.