2-3golden beetspeeled and cut into wedges or half moons
2tablespoonsolive oilfor roasting
salt and pepperto taste
1-2handfuls spinach or beet greenschopped (lightly wilted or raw)
4ozhot smoked salmonflaked
2tablespoonsroasted pumpkin seeds
¼cupfeta cheese
2tablespoonschopped fresh dill
2green onions or chivesfinely sliced
For the dressing
1/2cupfull-fat plain yogurt
1teaspoonlemon zest
1tablespoonlemon juice
1teaspoonolive oil
1tablespoonfinely chopped fresh dill
Salt and pepperto taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash, peel, and dice the golden beets. Slice rainbow carrots on a diagonal or into half-moons (whatever feels more salad-friendly).
Transfer the veggies into a large mixing bowl and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Transfer the coated veggies into a baking sheet and roast for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. Set aside to cool slightly.
Rinse 1 cup of buckwheat groats under cool water. Optional but recommended: dry-toast them in a saucepan over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
Add 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 10–12 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steam (lid on) for another 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Let cool slightly.
In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients.
Flake the hot-smoked salmon. Use your hands or a fork to gently break the salmon into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
In a large bowl or on a serving platter, add the cooked buckwheat and top with roasted carrots and beets. Nestle in the smoked salmon.
Spoon or drizzle the lemon-dill sauce over the top
Garnish with extra fresh dill, lemon zest, or a small handful of baby greens.
This salad is best served at room temperature. You can also chill it and bring it out 10–15 minutes before serving to let the flavors shine.
Notes
Toast your buckwheat first - it boosts its nutty flavor and keeps it from going mushy when cooked.Don’t crowd the veggies on the roasting tray - roasted carrots and beets need room to caramelize, not to get steamed.Flake the smoked salmon gently - you want nice, bite-sized pieces.