Are you looking for a healthy, vibrant, and incredibly flavorful salad to brighten your dinner table? Look no further! This Russian Beet Salad recipe is a culinary gem, bursting with earthy sweetness and a tangy zip. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels, offering a delightful taste of Eastern European cuisine. It's a quick dinner idea that's surprisingly healthy and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized beets, cooked and peeled (about 1 ½ cups diced)
- 1 medium-sized potato, cooked and diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 medium-sized carrot, cooked and diced (about ½ cup)
- ½ cup finely chopped white onion
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables
Begin by cooking your beets, potatoes, and carrots until tender. You can boil, steam, or even roast them – whichever method you prefer. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly before peeling and dicing them into roughly uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the diced beets, potatoes, and carrots. Add the chopped white onion and fresh dill. The dill adds a wonderful fresh herbaceous note that complements the earthy beets beautifully.
Step 3: Making the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the vinegar, creating a harmonious dressing.
Step 4: Dressing the Salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to retain the texture of the vegetables.
Step 5: Chilling and Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing the best taste. Serve chilled and enjoy! This delicious dish is best served cold, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Tips and Variations:
- Cooking the Beets: For perfectly cooked beets, try wrapping them in foil before roasting. This helps them retain moisture and prevents them from drying out.
- Adding Protein: For a heartier salad, consider adding cooked chickpeas, lentils, or even shredded chicken or grilled shrimp.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Creamy Version: For a richer salad, stir in a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 200 Fat: 10g Protein: 3g Carbohydrates: 25g Fiber: 4g
This Russian Beet Salad is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly memorable dish. It's a healthy meal option, perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side to accompany your favorite protein. The recipe is easily customizable to your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!