Cool off on hot summer nights with this fresh beet salad. This dish features ingredients that can be found at local farmers’ markets and is quick and easy to prepare.

Serving Size: 2 cups

Yield: 4 servings

Salad ingredients:

• 6 cups of mixed greens or arugula, rinsed and dried
• 1 cup beets, diced (roasted, steamed or raw)
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
• ¼ cup cheese crumbles (goat, feta or bleu cheese)

Dressing ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Juice and grated zest of 1/2 orange
• Pinch of dried thyme, salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Add greens to a large bowl, then top with remaining salad ingredients.
2. To make dressing, place ingredients in a jar, seal tightly, and shake vigorously.