Watercress, Pistachio & Beet Salad

Bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a large saucepan fitted with a steamer basket. Add beets, cover and cook until tender, 10 to 12 minutes. Combine 2 tablespoons vinegar, 1 tablespoon syrup and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir in the beets. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes and up to 2 days.

To serve, whisk the remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar, 2 teaspoons syrup, 1/4 teaspoon salt, oil and pepper in a large bowl. Add watercress and sliced fennel; toss to coat. Arrange the beets around the edge of a platter and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of the pickling liquid. Mound the salad in the center. Top with pistachios and cheese. Garnish with chopped fennel fronds, if desired.