Health Hotline Magazine | February 2026

This incredibly simple salad is a satisfying addition to your winter meals. The crisp, refreshing greens with the sweet earthiness of beets and toasted pecans pair perfectly with creamy goat cheese to make for a delightful mix of textures and flavors! Salad Winter BEET Serves: 6 | Prep time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40-50 minutes | Total time: 65 minutes INGREDIENTS with balsamic dressing

For the salad

• 6-8 cups organic mixed salad greens (if your beets have nice leafy tops, rinse and chop them to add to the mix!) • 2 medium or 4 small organic red and/or golden beets • ½ cup Natural Grocers ® Brand Bulk Organic Pecan Pieces • ¼ cup Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Apple Juice Sweetened Cranberries • ½ cup crumbled goat cheese • ⅓ cup Natural Grocers Brand Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil • ¼ cup Natural Grocers Brand Organic Balsamic Vinegar • 1 tablespoon organic fig preserves (or sub apricot, raspberry, blackberry, or plum) • Salt and pepper, to taste For the dressing INSTRUCTIONS 1. Wash the beets, trim the ends, and place them in a large pot and cover with water; the water should be 1–2 inches above the beets. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until a fork or sharp knife easily pierces into the thickest part of the beets. Strain and let cool. Peel and cut the beets into quarters, then thinly slice.

2. While the beets are cooking, place a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, add the pecans and toast for 3-5 minutes, until fragrant and lightly browned. Stir every 20-30 seconds to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning, reducing temperature as necessary. Once done transfer to a small bowl. 3. Make the dressing by adding the dressing ingredients to a bowl and whisking until well blended. 4. Add the greens, beets, toasted pecans, cranberries, and cheese to a large bowl and drizzle with desired amount of dressing. Gently toss and serve.

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