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This fresh beet and cucumber salad is a vibrant mix that balances earthy beets with crisp cucumbers and a tangy lemon Dijon vinaigrette. It’s perfect as a light side or a refreshing snack any time of year.
Ingredients
- Pickled beets: bring wonderful tang and vibrant color; choose firm pickled beets for the best texture
- Medium cucumber: adds crispness and lightness; English cucumbers work best to avoid extra seeds
- Feta cheese: offers creamy saltiness to balance the sweetness of the beets; go for a good quality block for crumbly freshness
- Fresh dill: adds a bright herbal note that makes the salad pop; pick stems with healthy green leaves
- Lemon juice: gives zesty brightness and lifts the whole dish
- Olive oil: use extra virgin for smooth richness
- Honey: balances acidity with a subtle sweetness; raw honey adds depth
- Dijon mustard: provides gentle heat and emulsifies the dressing
- Salt and pepper: season to taste to enhance all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Spoon together the base:
- In a large bowl gently combine the pickled beets, sliced cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, and roughly chopped fresh dill until evenly mixed and colorful
- Whisk your dressing:
- In a separate small bowl whisk lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper vigorously until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened
- Coat the salad:
- Pour the vinaigrette over the beet mixture and toss gently until each piece is well covered with the tangy dressing
- Let the flavors marry:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the ingredients absorb the dressing and the flavors become harmonious
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh beets instead of pickled?
Yes, fresh beets can be roasted or boiled before adding. Pickled beets add tanginess, so consider adding a splash of vinegar if you prefer a similar flavor.
- → What type of cucumber is best for the salad?
English or Persian cucumbers work well due to their thin skin and mild flavor, offering a crisp texture without bitterness.
- → Can I substitute feta cheese with another cheese?
Goat cheese or ricotta salata are great alternatives that maintain a creamy, tangy element similar to feta.
- → How long should the salad marinate?
Allow at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld, though a few hours can deepen the taste further.
- → Is it possible to prepare the vinaigrette in advance?
Absolutely, the lemon Dijon vinaigrette can be whisked together and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making assembly quick and easy.