Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant, refreshing salad that bursts with flavor and color, the Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill is an absolute must-try. This delightful combination brings together the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, the crisp freshness of cucumbers, the creamy tang of feta, and the bright herbaceous punch of dill, all tied together with a simple balsamic dressing. It’s not only a feast for your palate but also a visually stunning dish that looks just as good on the table as it tastes. Perfect for warm days or as a colorful side, this salad effortlessly balances textures and flavors in a way that feels both light and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering that perfect harmony of taste and texture, while also contributing to the beautiful contrast of colors on your plate.

• 2 medium Fresh Beets: The star of the show with their sweet, earthy flavor and gorgeous deep red color.
• 1 English Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch and brightens the salad with its cool, crisp taste.
• 100g Crumbled Feta Cheese: Brings creamy, salty notes that perfectly complement the sweetness of the beets.
• 2 tbsp Fresh Dill, chopped: Infuses the salad with a fresh, slightly tangy herbal aroma.
• 3 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Provides a silky richness that ties all the ingredients together.
• 1 tbsp Aged Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a subtle tangy depth and a touch of sweetness to brighten the flavors.
• Salt and Pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors without overpowering them.

How to Make Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill

Step 1: Roast the Beets to Tender Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each fresh beet in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 45 minutes until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. This roasting step brings out their natural sweetness and softens them perfectly. Allow the beets to cool before peeling off the skins, which should slip right off with a gentle rub.

Step 2: Prepare the Crisp Cucumbers

While the beets are roasting, slice your English cucumber into thin rounds. This method keeps each bite refreshingly crisp, providing a perfect contrast to the tender beets. The cool cucumber flavor also balances nicely with the richness of the feta cheese.

Step 3: Combine Beets and Cucumbers

Once peeled, dice the roasted beets into bite-sized pieces and gently mix them with the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Keep the mixing gentle to preserve the delicate texture of the vegetables while allowing flavors to start mingling.

Step 4: Add Feta Cheese and Fresh Dill

Generously crumble your feta cheese over the beet and cucumber mixture, then sprinkle the fresh chopped dill on top. The creamy feta adds a salty tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the beets, and the dill brings a fresh, herbal note that brightens the whole salad.

Step 5: Whisk and Drizzle the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this luscious dressing over the salad just before serving to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor. The olive oil’s richness and the balsamic’s tangy sweetness pull the entire dish together.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Gently toss the salad to coat all the ingredients evenly in the dressing. The Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill is best served chilled or at room temperature, making it wonderfully versatile for any dining occasion.

How to Serve Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh dill on top or a light sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a subtle crunch. A little extra crumbled feta at serving time adds a pop of creaminess that makes each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a side alongside grilled chicken, roasted lamb, or even crispy falafel. Its fresh, tangy flavors balance heavier proteins beautifully, making it a perfect accompaniment for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning appetizer, layer the Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill in clear glasses or small bowls. Alternately, serve it atop a bed of leafy greens or arugula to add an extra layer of freshness and color that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness of the cucumbers and the delicate herbs. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing

Because of the fresh cucumbers and feta, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture of these ingredients doesn’t hold up well once frozen and thawed, so enjoy it fresh or refrigerated instead.

Reheating

Since this salad is best served chilled or at room temperature, it does not need reheating. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the flavors gently.

FAQs

Can I use canned beets instead of fresh beets?

While fresh roasted beets have the best flavor and texture, canned beets can be a convenient alternative. Just be sure to drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the salad.

What type of feta cheese works best for this salad?

A tangy, crumbly feta works best for the Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill. Traditional Greek feta or a sheep’s milk feta will provide the most authentic flavor balance.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or use toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.

Is it better to peel the cucumbers for this salad?

Leaving the skins on adds a nice crunch and color contrast, especially if you use English cucumbers which have thinner, less bitter skins. If you prefer a milder taste, you can peel them.

How long can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time but toss with the dressing just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp and the flavors fresh.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this refreshing, colorful Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers, and Dill. It’s a dish that invites you to enjoy simple, fresh ingredients in every bite and brighten up any meal with its eye-catching hues. Give it a go, and I promise this will become one of your favorite easy salads to whip up in no time!

Print