The Garden Series: Roasted Beet Salad with Feta, Basil & Lemon

At Homeandfashion.love, we believe a salad should be a celebration-a harmonious blend of color, texture, seasonality, and soul. Roasted beets bring a grounded sweetness and vibrant earthiness that transform a simple salad into something radiant and deeply satisfying. This recipe, a favorite from our Garden Table, is softly herbaceous and lemon-brightened, crowned with creamy feta and a drizzle of olive oil-perfect for early summer lunches, shaded patios, and linen-draped tables.

Why We Love It

Roasted beets offer a subtle sweetness that feels substantial yet delicate, a canvas waiting for the kiss of citrus, a whisper of fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of salt and cream. Lemon juice is the secret ingredient here-it softens the beet’s assertiveness and infuses the dish with a tender brightness that elevates every bite.

Roasted Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon and Herbs

Serves 4 | Best served slightly chilled or at room temperature

Ingredients:

  • 4–5 medium beets, roasted and peeled

  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • Juice of 2 large lemons (don’t be shy!)

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • Handful of fresh basil leaves, torn

  • Handful of another herb-flat-leaf parsley, tarragon, or mint

  • Sea salt & freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Method:

  1. Roast the Beets:
    Wrap each beet in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 40–50 minutes until fork-tender. Let cool slightly, then peel and slice or cube as you prefer.

  2. Prep the Onion:
    Soften the onion by letting it rest in a splash of lemon juice and olive oil while the beets cool. This mellows the bite and infuses citrus brightness.

  3. Combine & Dress:
    In a wide, shallow bowl (we adore a carved olive wood platter for this), layer the beets and onions. Drizzle with olive oil and the remaining lemon juice. Add oregano and salt generously-beets adore salt-and toss gently.

  4. Add Feta & Herbs:
    Crumble feta over the top and scatter fresh herbs just before serving. Finish with cracked pepper and a final squeeze of lemon for that extra lift.

Garden Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, crusty sourdough, or a cool glass of mint-infused water. It also complements creamy textures-try it alongside chilled labneh or a dollop of ricotta for a truly elegant lunch.

Styling Tip from the Home & Fashion Table

Serve on a naturally shaped wooden tray or salad bowl, alongside linen napkins and sprigs of rosemary or lemon balm. A halved lemon left casually on the table adds rustic charm and invites guests to brighten their own plates.

Why It Belongs in the Garden Series

This is not just a salad. It’s a love letter to the herbs growing near the kitchen door, to the lemon tree you dream of, to long, languid lunches beneath vine-strung pergolas. It reminds us that beauty, nourishment, and simplicity flourish best in the garden.