Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that is as visually striking as it is delicious, the Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe is your new go-to. This vibrant salad balances the earthy sweetness of tender baby beets with the creamy tang of labneh, all crowned with the nutty crunch of dukkah. It’s a simple yet sophisticated combination that brings warmth and freshness to any table, making it perfect for casual lunches or elegant gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe comes from a handful of humble ingredients, each playing an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture. These straightforward components make the preparation quick, and the result wonderfully vibrant and satisfying.

• Labneh (350g): This creamy strained yogurt adds a tangy and smooth base that complements the beets perfectly.
• Baby beets: Tender, sweet, and earthy, the baby beets bring beautiful color and a natural sweetness to the dish.
• Dill (1 tsp, chopped): Fresh dill adds a bright, herbal note that lightens and elevates the flavors.
• Dukkah (1 tbsp): This nutty, spiced Egyptian blend delivers a crunchy texture and deep, aromatic flavor.
• Olive oil (2 tsp): A drizzle of good-quality olive oil seals the dish with a silky finish and a hint of fruitiness.

How to Make Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baby Beets

Start by washing the baby beets thoroughly. If they aren’t pre-cooked, boil or roast them until tender — typically about 20 to 30 minutes depending on size. Once cooked, let them cool until you can handle them comfortably, then peel off the skins gently by rubbing with your fingers or using a paper towel.

Step 2: Fluff the Labneh

Spoon the labneh into a serving bowl and fluff it up gently with a fork or whisk to create an airy texture. This helps the labneh to contrast beautifully with the firm beets and crunchy dukkah.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Arrange the peeled baby beets around or on top of the labneh in an appealing pattern. Scatter the chopped dill evenly over the beets, and then sprinkle the dukkah generously to add that irresistible crunch.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch

Drizzle the olive oil thoughtfully over the entire dish. The oil not only adds a glossy sheen but also enhances the flavors, rounding out the earthy and tart elements with a luscious mouthfeel.

How to Serve Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe

Garnishes

For a fresh and colorful twist, add a few sprigs of dill or some finely chopped parsley on top. A pinch of sumac or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors subtly and complement the earthiness of the beets beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe shines as a side dish alongside grilled meats, particularly lamb or chicken. You can also serve it with warm flatbreads or alongside a crisp green salad for a light, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering baby beets and labneh in clear glasses for a stunning, layered effect at dinner parties. Alternatively, spread the labneh on a large platter and pile the beets in the center, finishing with a generous sprinkle of dukkah for a rustic yet elegant presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, although the dukkah may lose some crunch, so consider adding a fresh sprinkle before serving.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as labneh’s texture and the delicate crunch of dukkah do not hold up well to thawing, and the beets may become mushy.

Reheating

Since this recipe is best served chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer, bring the beets to room temperature before serving to best enjoy their flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of labneh?

While regular yogurt lacks the thickness and tang of labneh, you can strain it overnight using a cheesecloth to create a similar consistency, making a perfectly fine substitute.

Where can I buy dukkah?

Dukkah is becoming more common and can be found in specialty grocery stores, Middle Eastern markets, or online in spice blends or pre-made jars.

Are baby beets different from regular beets?

Baby beets are simply smaller and more tender versions of regular beets, cooking faster and often with a sweeter, milder flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can replace labneh with a thickened plant-based yogurt or cashew cream, though the flavor will differ slightly from the traditional tangy dairy.

How long do the cooked baby beets last in the fridge?

Cooked baby beets will stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days refrigerated in a sealed container, making them handy for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Baby Beets with Labneh and Dukkah Recipe is a brilliant example of how a few fresh, thoughtfully combined ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you’re serving it as a stunning appetizer or a light side, it’s bound to impress and delight your guests. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will be a beloved staple in your kitchen too!

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