Go Back
Cumin Spiced Beet Salad with Yogurt and Preserved Lemon

Cumin Spiced Beet Salad with Yogurt and Preserved Lemon

Craving a vibrant and refreshing dish? The Cumin Spiced Beet Salad with Yogurt and Preserved Lemon brings together earthy beets, zesty lemon, and creamy yogurt for a flavor-packed experience. Perfect for warm days or casual gatherings, this easy recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Make it tonight and enjoy a burst of color and flavor!
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs whole beets washed well, stems removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds
  • 1 small red onion very thinly sliced
  • 1 small preserved lemon very thinly sliced (seeds discarded)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 handful fresh dill roughly torn
  • 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • radish flowers for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chef's Knife
  • Frying Pan

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
  2. Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil. Place on a baking sheet and roast for 30 to 60 minutes (time will vary depending on the size of your beets) until a knife inserted into the beet goes through smoothly.
  3. Let cool slightly, then, when cool enough to handle, rub the beets with paper towels to remove the skins (they should slide right off).
  4. Cut into slices or wedges, then place in a large mixing bowl to cool.
  5. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a small frying pan set over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and cook for about 3 minutes or until fragrant and starting to pop.
  6. Pour warm oil over the beets. Add onion, preserved lemon, lemon juice, and half of the dill and toss to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer to a serving bowl or divide among plates.
  7. Mix together the yogurt and tahini. Dollop on top of beets in a few places and sprinkle with remaining dill and radish flowers (if using). Serve at room temperature.
  8. The beet mixture will keep, refrigerated in an airtight container, up to a day ahead of time. Top with yogurt and fresh dill just before serving.

Notes

  • Storage: How to store leftovers: Place any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day.
  • Freezing: Can you freeze this? It's not recommended to freeze as the texture of the beets will change.
  • Pairing: What to serve with this: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
  • Variations: Feel free to add nuts or additional herbs to customize the flavor.