If you’re searching for a dish that excites your senses and brightens up any table, the Vibrant Roasted Beets & Carrots with Creamy Burrata Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. This salad combines the earthiness of perfectly roasted beets and carrots with the decadently creamy burrata cheese, all brought together by a luscious honey-balsamic dressing. The colors alone—a striking palette of deep reds, sunny oranges, and lush greens—will make your mouth water before the first bite. It is a celebration of simple ingredients enhanced with thoughtful roasting and fresh herbs, making it not only beautiful but deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Vibrant Roasted Beets & Carrots with Creamy Burrata Salad Recipe comes down to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in adding texture, taste, and vibrant color—making the dish both wholesome and visually stunning.
- 2 medium beets: Peeled and wedged to bring earthy sweetness and rich color to your salad.
- 3 medium carrots: Also peeled and wedged for a natural sweetness and tender bite after roasting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Coats the veggies for roasting, enhancing caramelization and adding a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing flavors and bringing out the natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a gentle herbal note that complements the root vegetables beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a faint smoky undertone, transforming the simple roast into something special.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Blends with balsamic vinegar to create a sticky, sweet dressing that perfectly balances the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds acidity and depth, enhancing the brightness of the salad.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Sprinkled on top for freshness, an herbal burst, and vibrant green contrast.
- 1 ball burrata cheese: The star creamy indulgence that melts slightly over the warm roasted veggies.
- 2 cups mixed greens: A crisp, fresh base that adds texture and a refreshing bite.
How to Make Vibrant Roasted Beets & Carrots with Creamy Burrata Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Having the right temperature is crucial to getting those perfect tender and caramelized edges on your vegetables. Meanwhile, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
Step 2: Peel and Cut the Vegetables
Using a vegetable peeler, remove the skins from the beets and carrots. Then cut them into even wedges. This step ensures that the pieces roast uniformly, giving each bite that perfect texture—tender, yet with a slight caramelized crispness on the edges.
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings
Place your beet and carrot wedges in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Toss everything gently until all the vegetables are evenly coated. This simple seasoning blend adds layers of flavor that elevate the humble roots into a vibrant centerpiece.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Spread the vegetables in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes, turning halfway through. You want them tender with a beautiful caramelized finish—it’s these roasted notes that give this salad its addictive depth.
Step 5: Whisk the Honey-Balsamic Dressing
While the veggies are roasting, stir together the honey and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. This dressing introduces a sweet and tangy contrast that balances the earthiness and creaminess in the salad perfectly.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Once roasted, let the beets and carrots cool just slightly—about five minutes. Lay your mixed greens on a large platter or individual plates. Top with roasted vegetables in an even layer. Tear the burrata cheese into chunks and scatter over the veggies and greens, letting the cheese soften invitingly.
Step 7: Dress and Garnish
Drizzle your honey-balsamic dressing generously over the entire salad, ensuring every component is kissed by its flavor. Finally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a fragrant and colorful finish. Serve immediately and watch as everyone dives in enthusiastically.
How to Serve Vibrant Roasted Beets & Carrots with Creamy Burrata Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted nuts like walnuts or pistachios can add a wonderful crunch, and a few fresh sprigs of thyme or basil elevate the fragrance even more. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also lend a glossy finish and richness if desired.
Side Dishes
This salad stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with rustic bread or grilled chicken for a more substantial meal. Its light but flavorful profile complements mains like roast pork or seared salmon effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad on a wooden board for a rustic vibe or in individual glass bowls to showcase the vivid colors. You can even turn it into a composed platter by arranging veggies and burrata in neat rows or circles, making it a stunning conversation starter at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep the flavors fresh, store the roasted beets and carrots separately from the greens and burrata in airtight containers. This prevents the greens from wilting and the cheese from losing its creamy texture.
Freezing
Roasted beets and carrots freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. However, the burrata cheese and mixed greens do not freeze well and are best added fresh when serving.
Reheating
Reheat the roasted vegetables gently in a warm oven or on the stovetop to preserve their caramelized edges. Avoid microwaving burrata; instead, add fresh cheese when assembling the salad for the best creamy texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of burrata?
Absolutely! While burrata is wonderfully creamy and mild, fresh mozzarella or soft goat cheese can be great alternatives that provide a similar creaminess and tang.
Is it necessary to peel the beets and carrots?
Peeling ensures a tender texture and removes the tougher outer layer, but if your vegetables are very fresh and organic, you can lightly scrub them and roast with the skin on for added nutrients and rustic appeal.
How long can I store the prepared salad?
If assembled, it’s best enjoyed within a few hours for optimal freshness, especially because the greens and burrata can wilt or spoil quickly. Storing components separately is better for longer freshness.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes! The honey-balsamic dressing can be whisked together and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature and whisk again before drizzling.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika or a touch of ground cumin can work as substitutes, though smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth that really enhances the flavor profile of this salad.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of sharing a salad that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat. The Vibrant Roasted Beets & Carrots with Creamy Burrata Salad Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite in my kitchen because it feels special without being fussy. It’s perfect for casual lunches, impressive dinners, or whenever you want a colorful plate full of warmth, creaminess, and a touch of sweet tang. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new staple in your recipe collection!
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Vibrant Roasted Beets & Carrots with Creamy Burrata Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant roasted beets and carrots salad combines sweet, caramelized root vegetables with creamy burrata cheese and fresh mixed greens, all tossed in a honey-balsamic dressing. Perfect as a colorful appetizer or light main course, it balances earthiness, creaminess, and tangy sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium beets, peeled and cut into wedges
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and cut into wedges
Seasonings & Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Greens & Cheese
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 ball burrata cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the vegetables.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Peel Vegetables: Peel the beets and carrots using a vegetable peeler for a smooth finish and better texture.
- Cut Beets: Cut the peeled beets into evenly sized wedges to ensure uniform roasting.
- Cut Carrots: Similarly, cut the peeled carrots into wedges matching the size of the beet pieces.
- Toss Vegetables with Oil and Seasoning: Place beet and carrot wedges into a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the coated vegetables out in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet to promote caramelization.
- Roast Vegetables: Roast in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, turning halfway through, until vegetables are tender and nicely caramelized.
- Prepare Dressing: While vegetables roast, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl to create a sweet and tangy dressing.
- Cool Roasted Vegetables: Once roasted, remove the vegetables from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange Salad Base: Lay out mixed greens evenly on a large platter or individual plates as the salad foundation.
- Add Roasted Vegetables: Place the roasted beets and carrots on top of the greens, distributing evenly.
- Add Burrata Cheese: Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and scatter over the salad for a creamy texture.
- Drizzle Dressing: Pour the honey-balsamic dressing evenly over the entire salad, ensuring all ingredients get a flavor boost.
- Garnish with Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the salad for brightness and visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm roasted vegetables and cool creamy burrata with fresh greens.
Notes
- You can substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable.
- Roasting time may vary depending on oven and vegetable size—check tenderness with a fork.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; add burrata fresh when serving again.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian friendly.
