Prepare to transform ordinary beets into an extraordinary culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests! This vibrant Roasted Beets Labneh Side Dish is not just a recipe—it's a journey through Middle Eastern flavors that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beets with the luxurious creaminess of labneh. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a curious food explorer, this dish promises to elevate your dining experience with its stunning colors, rich textures, and irresistible taste.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets, scrubbed
- 1 cup labneh
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help roast the beets evenly, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the beets. Scrub the beets under running water to remove any dirt. Trim the tops and roots, but leave the skin on to help retain moisture during roasting.
- Wrap each beet individually in aluminum foil. This will create a steaming effect that keeps them tender. Place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet for easy handling.
- Roast the beets in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the beets. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the largest beet; it should slide in easily.
- Once the beets are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly, still wrapped in foil. This will make them easier to handle.
- After the beets have cooled enough to handle, unwrap them and use paper towels or your hands to gently rub off the skins. The skins should come off easily. Be careful, as the beets can stain your hands; you might want to wear gloves.
- Cut the peeled beets into wedges or cubes, depending on your preference. Place them in a serving bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix the labneh with olive oil, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. The labneh will add creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the beets.
- Drizzle the labneh mixture over the roasted beets, ensuring they are well coated. You can either serve the dish immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the dish a final sprinkle of fresh dill for garnish. Enjoy your Roasted Beets Labneh Side Dish as a vibrant and flavorful addition to your meal!
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm beets with smooth skin for the best roasting results.
- Wear disposable gloves when handling beets to prevent staining your hands.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cumin or za'atar to the labneh mixture.
- If you don't have labneh, Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute.
- To save time, you can roast the beets a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator.
- For a more intense flavor, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts before serving.
- Ensure your beets are completely cooled before peeling to make the skin removal easier.
- Use high-quality olive oil to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
