Beets and a Beef
Winter, I’ve got a bone to pick with you. You’ve got me and every one I know in foul moods, sick of our sweaters, and wanting to run off to the Domincan Republic. You’ve even given one of my friends the flu. What are you, some kind of bully?
At first I was trying very hard to see the good in you — oh, I’ll make casserole and read and drink hot chocolate — but whatever charms you had are wearing thin. You’re outstaying your welcome, and quite frankly, I’m just not that into you.
I appreciate the sunny days you’re offering, really I do. Unfortunately, it’s just not enough. For whatever reason — maybe it’s your big gusty winds and frigid air, just saying — your very presence makes even the simplest tasks trying. You’ve got me in the dumps, and I think all of us here are ready for you to show yourself the door.
Maybe when you go, though, you could leave behind your vegetable friends? The humble greens and hearty roots are the one saving grace of this season, and I’m always sorry to see them go, even if they do make room for slim stems of asparagus and prehistoric-looking baby artichokes. Can you just do that one thing for me? It’s not like I haven’t given up enough for you.
Until a new, much-anticipated, sunnier season is ushered in, I’ll console myself with the winter vegetables. They are the only reason why I’m still at this party. Maybe it’s not you, winter, maybe it’s me. But one thing’s for sure — our love affair is over.
Winter Salad
Serves 1
I would have loved to coat the goat cheese in bread crumbs and fresh thyme, but alas, it wasn’t meant to be. That would make a lovely variation, though.
2 beets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ounce goat cheese
handful walnut halves
mixed greens
your favorite vinaigrette
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Peel beets and toss with olive oil. Roast in oven until fork-tender, about an hour, and then cut into wedges. Meanwhile, place walnut halves in a skillet and toast over medium heat until fragrant — keep an eye on them and be careful not to let them burn. Preheat broiler. Place goat cheese round on a broiler pan and broil until hot and bubbling. Remove from broiler. Toss beets, lettuce, and walnut halves with your favorite vinaigrette and top with the goat cheese.
Julia: Well put. I am sick of winter too. I like the look of this recipe though; perfect for in-between seasons, I think, with it’s warmth and heartiness, combined with an optimistic nod towards the more salad-friendly seasons. Take heart Sarah, the first shoots of daffodils have appeared in my garden – a sure sign that Spring has not forgotten us, and is getting ready to give Winter the shove in a few (probably very long) weeks’ time.2 years ago
Betsy: Winter is the reason I live on the coast of Northern California. Today is balmy with rain on the way. I’ve been outdoors weeding and checking out the blossoms of my cherry tree. Those beets and the goat cheese look like picadilly heaven to me!2 years ago
cassandra: So sorry winter has you down. I have a great idea! Come to Dallas. It is 81 today, the windows are open and there is a gentle breeze. Well, I guess I depressed you even more so I will shut up for now.2 years ago
One comment is commiseration and two are from people smart enough to live in milder climes!
Julia, Talk of your daffodils absolutely cheered me. I will keep my fingers crossed for their big shove.
Betsy, “Checking out the blossoms of my cherry tree” sounds like heaven to me. When I went to North California this summer I cried when it was time to come home! I love your neck of the woods.
Cassandra, I’d happily come back to Dallas. And we can have those ribs at Houston’s!2 years ago
Dana McCauley: So true – this winter thing has just gone on and on a bit too long!
Looks like a great salad to coddle you through this awkward period before spring really happens.2 years ago
Christine H.: Well, if I could, I would send you some of this 86º weather of mine and steal some of your precipitation (if you have any to spare, that is).
And I don’t think I’ve yet told you how much I love the new site design & layout–especially the fun font. It makes me smile.
2 years ago
Brenda Leyland: Chuckled at your ‘rant’ about Winter….even though I haven’t personally gotten to the point where I feel the same way. For some reason, I’m pretty mellow about it all this year (even though we’re experiencing a deep freeze right now).
BTW, I love your new look! Very inviting!2 years ago
kat: But there hasn’t been any snow to shovel in weeks! Don’t get me wrong, I much prefer warmer seasons, but as long as I don’t have to shovel- I don’t mind the cold/wind/rain.2 years ago
Christine, YAY! So glad you like the site (and that you are experiencing 80 degree weather!).
Brenda, Mellow is the way to go. I envy that kind of perspective right now.
You are so right, kat, it hasn’t even been that bad. I think winter is my scapegoat.
2 years ago
Gourmet Chick: I hear you. So sick of winter right now – there are a few signs of a thaw here in London but I know that it won’t really be over until April which right now seems like a long time away.2 years ago
Ricky: I wish I could cook like you, Sarah. This looks delicious with a capital D!2 years ago