Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers & Dill Recipe
This vibrant Beet Salad with Feta, Cucumbers & Dill is a refreshing and colorful dish perfect for a healthy side or light meal. Tender boiled beets are combined with crisp cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and fresh dill, all tossed in a simple red wine vinegar and olive oil dressing. The salad offers a delicious mix of earthy, creamy, and bright flavors, ideal for warm weather or anytime you want a nutrient-packed salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 medium-sized beets
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
Dairy
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Herbs & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Wash Beets: Begin by thoroughly washing the beets under running water to remove any dirt and impurities from the skin.
- Boil Beets: Place the beets in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for 45 to 60 minutes until they become fork-tender when poked.
- Cool and Peel: Drain the cooked beets and allow them to cool. Once cool enough to handle, peel the skins off by rubbing gently with your fingers or using a paper towel.
- Dice Beets: Cut the peeled beets into bite-sized pieces and transfer them into a large mixing bowl.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Add the diced cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped dill into the bowl with the beets.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined to make the dressing.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the beet mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and add extra salt or pepper if needed before transferring it to a serving dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a few extra sprigs of fresh dill for an attractive presentation and serve immediately or chilled.
Notes
- You can roast the beets instead of boiling for a deeper flavor.
- The salad can be made ahead and chilled for up to 2 days; add fresh dill garnish before serving.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- If beets stain your hands, rub them with lemon juice or vinegar to remove discoloration quickly.
- Feel free to add a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Keywords: beet salad, feta cheese, cucumber salad, fresh dill, healthy salad, Mediterranean salad, vegetable salad, vegetarian salad