Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe

Beet and Kohlrabi Slaw is a vibrant and refreshing dish that showcases the delightful combination of sweet beets, spicy kohlrabi, and tart apples. This Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a light lunch. Its standout qualities include fresh ingredients, a zesty citrus dressing, and the option to add creamy feta or keep it vegan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Crisp: The combination of raw beets, kohlrabi, and apples offers a satisfying crunch that awakens your taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this salad comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side salad, a light lunch, or even in tacos for an extra layer of flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this salad is a healthy addition to any meal.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the dressing or toppings to suit your preferences for endless variations.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Gather these basic kitchen essentials before you start preparing your Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grater or food processor
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: This tool helps to blend the dressing thoroughly for an even distribution of flavors.
• Grater or food processor: Shredding the vegetables ensures they mix well and enhances the texture of the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large kohlrabi (peeled and finely shredded)
• 2 medium raw beets (peeled and finely shredded)
• 1 large apple (cored and cut into thin matchsticks)
• 2 tablespoons parsley (minced)
• 2 green onions (chopped)

For the Dressing

• 1 orange (juiced)
• 1 orange (zested)
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt + pepper (to taste)

Toppings

• 1/4 cup toasted sunflower seeds
• Feta cheese (omit for vegan/dairy-free)

How to Make Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Place the shredded kohlrabi, shredded beets, chopped apple, parsley, and green onion in a large salad bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a separate small bowl, whisk together:
2. The orange zest
3. Orange juice
4. Lime juice
5. Olive oil
6. Salt + pepper

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. Gently drizzle the citrus dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Toss everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Add Toppings

1. Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds on top.
2. If desired, add crumbled feta cheese for extra creaminess.

Enjoy your deliciously crunchy beet and kohlrabi salad!

How to Serve Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe

This vibrant Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad is not only visually appealing but also versatile in its serving options. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this salad can complement many dishes.

As a Standalone Dish

• This salad is delicious on its own, making it a great light lunch option. The combination of beets and kohlrabi provides a satisfying crunch.

In Tacos

• Use the salad as a topping for soft or hard-shell tacos. The sweet and spicy flavors enhance your favorite fillings like chicken or turkey.

Accompanying Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or beef for a refreshing contrast. The citrus dressing brightens up the whole meal.

Mixed with Quinoa

• Combine the salad with cooked quinoa for a hearty dish. This adds protein and makes it even more filling.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include this salad in a buffet spread, where guests can serve themselves. It pairs well with various dishes and adds color to the table.

How to Perfect Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe

To elevate your Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce makes all the difference in taste. Choose firm beets, crisp kohlrabi, and juicy apples for the best results.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance but keep the dressing separate until serving. This ensures your veggies stay crunchy.

• Experiment with Dressings: While citrus dressing is delightful, feel free to explore other dressings like tahini or balsamic vinaigrette for varied flavors.

• Add Color: Incorporate additional colorful vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for an even more vibrant dish that catches the eye.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe

When serving Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad, you might want to pair it with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and are easy to prepare on the grill.

2. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with herbs complements the crunchiness of the slaw without overpowering it.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet treats provide a warm contrast to the coolness of the salad while being naturally sweet.

4. Quinoa Pilaf: Flavored with herbs and spices, quinoa pilaf is nutritious and adds texture alongside your fresh salad.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice, vegetables, and spices, these peppers are hearty yet healthy options that pair well together.

6. Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus dips served with pita bread or vegetable sticks offers a satisfying snack alongside your meal.

7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn enhances any summer meal while providing sweetness that goes well with your salad.

8. Vegetable Soup: A light vegetable soup can serve as a comforting starter before diving into the refreshing salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip peeling: Not peeling the kohlrabi or beets can lead to a gritty texture. Always peel your vegetables for a smoother salad.
• Boldly over-dressing: Adding too much dressing can make your salad soggy. Start with a little and add more as needed to keep it fresh.
• Boldly ignoring freshness: Using wilted greens or old produce will affect the taste. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Boldly forgetting to chop evenly: Unevenly chopped ingredients can lead to inconsistent bites. Make sure all pieces are similar in size for balanced flavor.
• Boldly skimping on seasoning: A lack of salt and pepper can dull the flavors. Taste your salad before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as it may lose texture and flavor upon thawing.

Reheating Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad for about 10 minutes, covered, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe.

What makes the Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe so special?

This salad combines sweet beets with spicy kohlrabi and tart apples, creating a vibrant taste that is both refreshing and healthy.

Can I customize my Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other crunchy vegetables like carrots or radishes, or substitute sunflower seeds with nuts for added texture.

How do you make the dressing for the Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe?

The dressing is made by whisking together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, zest, salt, and pepper for a bright flavor.

Is this Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese, or use a plant-based alternative to keep it dairy-free.

How should I serve the Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad Recipe?

This salad works great as a side dish or even as a topping for tacos or grilled sandwiches!

Final Thoughts

The Crunchy Beet and Kohlrabi Salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. Its combination of flavors makes it perfect for any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings!