This arugula goat cheese beet salad is so simple, yet so delicious. It's easy for a quick salad recipe or it makes for a perfect side salad.

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This is a perfect simple salad recipe.

It’s so easy to prepare. The only thing you have to slice are the beets, and if you buy steamed beets, you don't even have to prep them much!

It’s perfect for lunch or a side salad. It's so simple to make whether you need a quick lunch or want a simple side salad for a dinner party.

It’s ready in under 10 minutes. I buy steamed beets, so this salad can be put together in just under 10 minutes.

The best way to cook beets?

Buy them steamed, that's my advice! However, if you want to steam beets yourself, it is more economical, Clean & Delicious has a super simple steamed beets recipe.

Ingredients for this beet goat cheese salad

Arugula. This will be the base of your salad. You can find bagged arugula near the refrigerated salad greens in your local grocery store.

Goat Cheese. I know there are tons of fun goat cheese flavors, but I recommend sticking to plain or honey goat cheese for this recipe.

Steamed Beets. I buy steamed beets from Trader Joe's, and if you want to make this recipe so easy, I recommend buying steamed or pickled beets at your local grocery store.

Beet salad with arugula variations

You can see in these photos, I added some more veggies and even pomegranate seeds. Here are some other add-in ideas.

Nuts: Add in almonds, walnuts or pepitas for a salty crunch.

Fruits: I added in pomegranate seeds and avocado, but you can also add apples or oranges.

Veggies: Red onion is always a great addition, you can always add cucumbers or even roasted squash or sweet potato.

Croutons: A cornbread crouton would be so delicious!

How to make beet and arugula salad

In a bowl, start with your arugula base. I always like to massage the greens with about a teaspoon of olive oil before making the salad. It helps break them down and helps the salad mix better.
Add your toppings.
Mix your homemade balsamic dressing and mix that into the salad.
Serve and enjoy!

How to make a homemade balsamic vinaigrette

One of my favorite ways to make homemade balsamic vinaigrette is with a bottled balsamic reduction.

½ tablespoon balsamic reduction
1 ½ tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon granulated garlic
salt + pepper, to taste

Make ahead tips

Keep the beets separate. You don't want the steamed or pickled beets making the arugula and goat cheese all soggy.

Dress it as you serve. Similar to the beets, nobody likes a soggy salad!

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Want some more easy salad recipes?