Food as medicine highlight 

Beets really pack a punch when it comes to nutrition! Golden beets contain a phytochemical called betaxanthins, which gives them their golden-orange hue and offers anti-inflammatory as well as antioxidant benefits. Beets are also a rich source of folate, vitamin C, and potassium. You may have heard about the benefits of beets for heart health. That’s because beets are a dietary source of nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body.  Nitric oxide helps with dilation of blood vessels, resulting in improved blood flow and health benefits such as lowered blood pressure. Go beets! 

Ingredients 

• 4 medium-sized golden beets (red beets would work well too) 

• Mixed greens (I used a 5 oz container) 

• 2 oz herb goat cheese (regular goat cheese would work as well) 

• Spicy mustard vinaigrette

Directions 

1. Preheat oven to 400℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

2. Remove the tops and the roots of the beets, and peel the beets with a vegetable peeler. Cut the beets into 1” chunks. 

3. Place the cut beets on a lined baking sheet, drizzle with avocado oil (about 1 tablespoon), and toss to coat. Sprinkle the beets with salt. 

4. Roast the beets for 30-minutes, turning them half way through. 

5. Allow beets to cool for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the salad.

6. Make a batch of this spicy mustard vinaigrette. I used balsamic vinegar in place of the apple cider vinegar. 

7. Place mixed greens in a mixing bowl and drizzle with desired amount of vinaigrette. Add beets. Toss to coat. 

8. Lastly, crumble the herb goat cheese over top and sprinkle with flakes of sea salt. I enjoyed this salad served with grilled chicken!