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Beet Salad with Miso and Black Sesame

This vibrant beetroot salad with miso and black sesame is a sophisticated vegan dish that celebrates the naturally sweet and earthy notes of golden beetroot. By combining tender roasted wedges with thinly sliced raw beetroot, you create a beautiful contrast in textures that makes every bite interesting. The peppery watercress provides a fresh base, while the savoury miso and rice wine vinegar dressing adds a deep umami finish that balances the sweetness of the root vegetables.

Ideal as a light lunch or an elegant starter, this healthy salad is packed with nutrients and can be partially prepared in advance to save time. You can roast the beetroot up to two days ahead and keep them chilled, making this an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining. Serve it as a stand-alone dish or alongside grilled proteins for a complete, colourful meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Beet Salad with Miso and Black Sesame

  • 6 small beets (about 450g ), preferably golden, scrubbed, divided

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 60ml white miso

  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar

  • 1 bunch watercress, trimmed

  • 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds or toasted white sesame seeds

How to make Beet Salad with Miso and Black Sesame

Preheat oven to 204°C. Place 4 beets on a large piece of foil and rub with 1 tablespoon oil; season with salt and pepper and close up foil around beets. Place on a rimmed baking sheet and roast until tender, 30–40 minutes. Unwrap beets and let cool slightly. Peel and cut into 1/2" wedges.

Meanwhile, whisk miso, vinegar, remaining 2 tablespoons oil, and 45ml water in a small bowl. Set dressing aside.

Thinly slice remaining 2 raw beets on a mandoline. Arrange watercress and roasted and raw beets on a platter and drizzle with reserved dressing; top with sesame seeds.

DO AHEAD: Beets can be roasted 2 days ahead. Cover separately and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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