Moroccan Beet Salad

Moroccan Beet Salad – A Vibrant, Flavor-Packed Dish

Discover the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this refreshing Moroccan Beet Salad. Featuring earthy beets, zesty oranges, and a medley of fresh herbs, this salad is not only visually stunning but also a delight to the palate. It’s the perfect side dish for a summer barbecue, a festive gathering, or even as a healthy lunch option. Follow these simple steps to create a salad that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 5 medium-sized beets, tops removed
• 1 red onion, cut in half and thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, packed
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed

Directions:

1. Cook the Beets:

• In a large pot, bring enough water to cover the beets to a boil. Add the beets and let them simmer until they are tender enough to be pierced with a fork, approximately 35-40 minutes. Once cooked, remove the beets from the pot and allow them to cool completely.

2. Peel and Cut the Beets:

• After the beets have cooled, peel them under cold running water using a peeler or rub the skins off with your fingers. Then, cut the beets into 2-inch pieces and set them aside.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, olive oil, cumin, and salt until well combined. This dressing will bring a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the earthiness of the beets beautifully.

4. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large serving bowl, combine the sliced beets, thinly sliced red onion, fresh mint, and cilantro. Drizzle the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together to ensure the beets and onions are well-coated with the dressing.

5. Serve:

• Serve the salad immediately, garnished with additional mint and cilantro leaves if desired. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be refrigerated for a few hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Calories: 120 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This Moroccan Beet Salad is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. The combination of sweet beets, sharp red onion, and the tang of the orange dressing provides a delicious contrast in flavors, while the mint and cilantro add a burst of freshness. Whether you’re serving it at a casual family meal or a special occasion, this salad is sure to impress your guests with its bold colors and even bolder flavors. Enjoy the taste of Morocco in each bite!

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