Roasted Root Vegetable & Walnut Feta Salad (Oven-Baked Med Veg Bake)

Roasted Root Vegetable & Walnut Feta Salad (Oven-Baked Med Veg Bake)

Description

This colorful dish is a warm roasted vegetable salad made with a mix of root vegetables like beetroot, carrots, sweet potatoes, and possibly squash, layered with creamy feta cheese and crunchy walnuts. It’s oven-roasted to bring out natural sweetness, then lightly seasoned with herbs, olive oil, and spices. The result is a hearty, nutritious, and visually stunning dish that works as a main meal or a side.

Ingredients

  • 2 medium beetroots, sliced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 1 sweet potato, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian herbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 100g feta cheese, crumbled
  • ½ cup walnuts
  • Optional: honey or balsamic glaze for drizzle
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Wash and slice all vegetables evenly for uniform roasting.
  3. In a large bowl, toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs.
  4. Spread them in a single layer in a baking dish or tray.
  5. Roast for 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and slightly caramelized.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  7. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the warm vegetables.
  8. Add toasted walnuts on top for crunch.
  9. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze if desired.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes & Tips

  • Slice vegetables evenly so they roast at the same speed.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan or they will steam instead of roast.
  • You can add pumpkin, zucchini, or bell peppers for variety.
  • Toast walnuts lightly in a dry pan for better flavor.
  • For extra flavor, add chili flakes or smoked paprika.

Servings

Serves: 4 people as a side dish or 2 as a main meal

Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 280–350 kcal
  • Protein: 8–10g
  • Carbohydrates: 30–35g
  • Fat: 15–20g
  • Fiber: High

Health Benefits

  • Rich in antioxidants from beetroot and carrots
  • Supports digestion due to high fiber content
  • Healthy fats from walnuts support brain and heart health
  • Calcium and protein from feta cheese
  • Naturally gluten-free and nutrient-dense

Q&A

Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes, replace feta with vegan cheese or skip it entirely.

Q: Can I store leftovers?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I serve it cold?
Absolutely, it tastes great as a cold salad the next day.

Q: What main dish pairs well with it?
Grilled chicken, fish, or quinoa pair perfectly.

Q: Can I meal prep this?
Yes, roast vegetables ahead and add feta/walnuts before serving.

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