A refreshing and vibrant salad, this Crisp Cucumber and Beetroot Salad with Herb Dressing is a perfect blend of crunch, color, and flavor. The natural sweetness of beets, the crispness of cucumbers, and the aromatic herb dressing create a delicious harmony that delights the senses. This salad is not just visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any meal. Whether served as a light appetizer or a side dish, it adds freshness and elegance to your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 2 medium beetroots, peeled and julienned
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons roasted walnuts or almonds (optional)
For the Herb Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and peel the beetroots. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, julienne the beets into thin strips. Similarly, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds for a crisp texture. Slice the red onion thinly to add a mild sharpness to the salad.
- Chop the herbs: Finely chop the fresh parsley and mint leaves, ensuring they blend well with the other ingredients and enhance the freshness of the dish.
- Make the herb dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This flavorful dressing will balance the earthy sweetness of the beets and the crunchiness of cucumbers.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers, julienned beets, red onion, chopped parsley, and mint. Pour the herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and roasted walnuts or almonds for added texture and depth of flavor. Serve immediately for a fresh, crisp taste or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.