Roasted Beet and Feta Stack with Honey-Balsamic Glaze

Few dishes capture the perfect balance of earthy, tangy, and sweet flavors quite like this Roasted Beet and Feta Stack with Honey-Balsamic Glaze. This elegant yet easy-to-make appetizer or side dish showcases the natural sweetness of roasted beets, the creamy tang of feta cheese, and a luscious honey-balsamic glaze that ties everything together. Whether you’re looking for a stunning dish for a dinner party or a simple, nutritious treat for yourself, this beet and feta stack is sure to impress.

Ingredients Needed

For the Roasted Beets:

• 3 medium beets, washed and trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Honey-Balsamic Glaze:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly:

• 4 ounces feta cheese, sliced into rounds or crumbled
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or mint
• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
• Microgreens or arugula for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Beets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the beets on a sheet of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Wrap the foil around the beets and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes, until fork-tender. Let them cool before peeling and slicing into rounds.

Step 2: Prepare the Honey-Balsamic Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reduces and thickens into a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Stack

On a serving plate, layer a beet slice, followed by a slice of feta cheese. Repeat until you have a small stack, finishing with a beet slice on top. Drizzle with the honey-balsamic glaze, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or mint, and top with toasted nuts for added crunch.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with microgreens or arugula if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful and visually stunning dish!

Why This Recipe Works

• Balance of Flavors: The sweet beets, tangy feta, and rich balsamic glaze create a perfect contrast.
• Simple Yet Elegant: This dish looks gourmet but is easy to make with minimal ingredients.
• Nutritious & Satisfying: Beets provide fiber and antioxidants, while feta adds protein and healthy fats.

Variations & Customizations

Classic Version

Follow the recipe as written for a well-balanced, delicious stack.

Vegan Version

Swap feta cheese for a dairy-free almond-based or tofu-based feta alternative.

Extra Crunch Version

Add crushed pistachios or candied pecans for a crunchy contrast.

Herb-Infused Version

Use rosemary or thyme instead of basil or mint for a different herbal note.

COOKING Note

To make peeling beets easier, rub the skin off with a paper towel after roasting. It should slide off effortlessly!

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, a fresh green salad, or a side of crusty bread. It also makes a fantastic appetizer for holiday gatherings and dinner parties.

Helpful Tips

• Use gloves when peeling beets to prevent staining your hands.
• Let the beets cool completely before slicing for cleaner layers.
• Reduce the glaze to a thick syrup to ensure it clings to the beets and feta.
• Toast nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor and crunch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 70 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 4g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the balsamic glaze: If over-reduced, it will become too thick and sticky.
• Skipping the resting time: Let the beets cool slightly before slicing to keep their shape.
• Not slicing evenly: Uniform beet and feta slices help the stack stay stable.
• Using cold feta: Let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Roasted Beet and Feta Stack with Honey-Balsamic Glaze is an easy yet stunning dish that highlights the natural sweetness of beets, the creamy tang of feta, and the deep richness of balsamic glaze. Whether you serve it as a light meal, an appetizer, or a side dish, this recipe is sure to delight with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes! Roast and slice the beets in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble just before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of feta cheese?

A: Goat cheese or ricotta are great substitutes that complement the beets well.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the glaze separate for best results.

Q: Can I use golden beets?

A: Absolutely! Golden beets offer a milder flavor and won’t stain as much as red beets.

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