Several years ago we were visiting Taos, New Mexico — one of our favorite escapes. We always have amazing meals when we’re there, and this time was no exception. This trip we had dinner at The Love Apple, a cozy local restaurant. One menu item was exceptionally memorable: a raw beet salad with grapefruit and mint. I had only eaten beets roasted—earthy and soft—and I honestly didn’t even know raw beets were a thing. Intrigued, I ordered it.
What arrived was nothing short of unforgettable. The salad was vibrant and jewel-toned, the beets finely shredded and dressed in a zesty lime and grapefruit vinaigrette.
Ruby red grapefruit segments added a burst of brightness, while fresh mint brought a cooling lift that tied everything together. It was slightly sweet, citrusy, earthy and refreshing all at once—a total surprise in both flavor and texture.
That dish has stuck with me even all these years later. So I set out to recreate it from “taste memory.” This version is the result: a raw beet salad that’s fresh, tangy, and completely energizing.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Raw Beet Salad
This raw beet salad is:
- Bright and citrusy with earthy undertones
- Packed with fresh flavor from mint and lime
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
Flavor Profile
This salad hits all the high notes:
- Sweetness from raw beets and a hint of agave
- Sourness from fresh lime and grapefruit
- Spiciness (optional) from a pinch of cayenne
- Herbal freshness from mint
The beets bring a subtle earthiness that anchors the bright, citrusy top notes. Every bite is juicy, crisp, and clean.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad isn’t just gorgeous—it’s incredibly good for you:
- Beets are rich in fiber, folate, and antioxidants like betalains.
- Ruby Red Grapefruit adds vitamin C and antioxidants that support immunity and skin health. Ruby Reds are also high in lycopene, an antioxidant with the power to fight free radicals, which age our bodies. In fact, lycopene is what makes red grapefruit red. Ruby Reds are also much higher in vitamin A.
- Mint aids digestion and adds a refreshing lift.
- Lime juice brings a dose of vitamin C while enhancing the bioavailability of other nutrients.
- Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fats that help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
This is a great salad for spring and summer when you crave something clean and revitalizing.
A Little More About Red Beets
Beets, or beetroot, are low in calories and fat and high in fiber and phytonutrients. They’re high in nitrates which may improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure. Beets contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. They are rich in vitamins C, A and K, which contribute to good bone health. They also include high levels of folate (vitamin B9), important for healthy cell growth and red blood cell formation, as well as several other B vitamins that may protect against dementia and memory loss.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this raw beet salad with mint and grapefruit as a light appetizer, as a refreshing side with grilled tofu or fish, or pile it onto a bed of greens for a more filling lunch. It’s also perfect for picnics—just keep the grapefruit and mint separate until serving.
Now let’s get into the recipe …
