Why does everyone insist that beets need to be cooked or pickled to enjoy them. When I served up this raw beet salad there was fear in the eyes of some as they had never eaten a beet raw. Beets are like carrots only different, I explained. After the first bite they understood. The sweet and crunchy texture is great together and the mellowed vinegary shallots add a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the beet. New way to enjoy the ruby red of summer.
Raw Beet Salad with Macerated Shallots
- 2 farm fresh beets
- 1 medium shallot
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar, or your favorite
- sea salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- 2-4 Tbsp olive oil, depending on your taste (we like equal vinegar to oil)
Thinly slice the beets, I used a mandoline, but a very sharp knife and a steady hand will also do the job. Do the same with the shallot. Again, I used the mandoline for this.
In a small bowl add the shallots, vinegar, salt & pepper, taste to see if it is seasoned enough. Leave to macerate for a few minutes, but 10-20 minutes will taste better. Then add the 2 Tbsp olive oil and whisk to combine, stick your finger in there and taste again. No one is looking. Add more oil if the vinegar is too strong for your liking.
When combined, lay the beets out on a platter and pour over the dressing. This can sit for quite a while, it is even good the next day as the flavors meld. Great Picnic food!
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I wish I liked beets, they are so colorful! And sorry, can't do the onions either – but I love onion rings! Go figure!
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had to come check out this recipe with beet and macerated in the title! love that the beets are raw, i prefer them that way. odd because i prefer carrots cooked. i'll be too lazy to get my mandolin down, and settle for too thick slices with my cutco chef's knife
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For the longest time, I always thought beets came in a can. This sounds delectable with the shallot and cider vineger!
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I'll try this and let you know what I think. It sounds good and a great way to use the beautiful fresh beets.
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I adore raw beet salads like these: easy yet so yummie!
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Beautiful salad, and the flavors sound great. I'm a fan of beets in any form or style.
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My daughter keeps telling me that raw beet tastes better than roasted beets! I think I will try it and use this recipe, it looks delicious!
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