← BlogJune 28, 2026

How to Make the Perfect Roasted Beet Arugula Salad

American · Easy · 50 min · 4 servings

vegandairy-freegluten-freeegg-free
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This roasted beet arugula salad features earthy caramelized beets on a bed of peppery arugula with a bright lemon dressing. It is a stunning and naturally vegan salad that works beautifully as a side or light vegan main dish.

Why this recipe works

This Roasted Beet Arugula Salad recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 50 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 160 calories with 3g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.

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What you will need

This recipe uses 7 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:

  • 4 medium beets trimmed and scrubbed
  • 4 cups fresh arugula
  • 0.25 cup candied walnuts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon maple syrup

Step by step instructions

Step 1: Roast the Beets

Wrap each beet individually in foil and place on a baking sheet. Roast at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 to 45 minutes until fork tender. Let cool then peel and slice.

Step 2: Make the Vinaigrette

Whisk together olive oil lemon juice Dijon mustard maple syrup salt and pepper in a small bowl until smooth and emulsified.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Spread arugula on a large serving plate. Arrange sliced roasted beets on top and scatter candied walnuts over the salad.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly or serve as is for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately.

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Easy substitutions

Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:

  • candied walnuts → toasted pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version
  • arugula → baby spinach for a milder green

Common mistakes to avoid

Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:

  • Not letting beets cool enough before peeling which makes them hard to handle and hot to work with
  • Dressing the salad too far in advance which wilts the arugula before serving

Nutrition facts

Per serving: 160 calories, 3g protein, 18g carbs, 9g fat, 4g fiber.

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