When it comes to dinner and meal ideas, few things are as refreshing and healthy as a well - crafted green salad. Today, we're going to explore a Mediterranean - seasoned salad that features roasted beets and radishes, creating an earthy base that is simply irresistible.

Let's start with the ingredients. For this salad, you'll need a bunch of fresh beets and radishes. Beets are not only rich in essential nutrients like folate, manganese, and potassium but also add a vibrant color to the salad. Radishes, on the other hand, bring a crisp and peppery note. You'll also need a variety of greens such as spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce. These greens are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, making them a great addition to any meal.

To prepare the beets and radishes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the beets and radishes thoroughly, then trim off the ends. Cut the beets into small cubes and the radishes into quarters. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a touch of Mediterranean spices like oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Roast them in the oven for about 25 - 30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The roasting process enhances their natural flavors and gives them a wonderful texture.

While the beets and radishes are roasting, it's time to prepare the greens. Wash the spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or a salad spinner. Tear the larger leaves into bite - sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl.

Once the beets and radishes are done roasting, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, add them to the salad bowl with the greens. You can also add some other Mediterranean - inspired ingredients to the salad. For example, feta cheese is a classic addition. Its creamy and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the earthy beets and radishes. Crumble some feta cheese over the salad. Kalamata olives are another great option. They have a rich, briny flavor that adds a depth of taste to the salad. Add a handful of pitted Kalamata olives to the mix.

Now, it's time to make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together some extra - virgin olive oil, lemon juice, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a clove of minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The lemon juice adds a bright and citrusy note, while the Dijon mustard helps to emulsify the dressing and gives it a bit of a kick. The garlic adds a savory flavor that ties all the ingredients together.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Make sure that each leaf and ingredient is coated with the dressing. You can serve the salad immediately as a light dinner or as a side dish to a main course. This Mediterranean - seasoned salad is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Another variation of this salad could be to add some cooked chickpeas. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber, making the salad more filling. You can cook the chickpeas in advance and add them to the salad along with the other ingredients. You can also top the salad with some fresh herbs like parsley or mint. These herbs add a fresh and aromatic touch to the salad.

In conclusion, this Mediterranean - seasoned salad with roasted beets and radishes is a versatile and healthy dinner or meal option. It combines，the earthy flavors of the roasted vegetables with the freshness of the greens and the tangy and savory notes of the Mediterranean ingredients. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a side dish for a special occasion, this salad is sure to be a hit.