Moroccan Beet Salad with Orange & Cumin

A vibrant and refreshing salad bursting with North African flavor!
Looking for a bold, colorful side dish that’s as nutritious as it is beautiful? This Moroccan Beet Salad is just the ticket. Packed with tender beets, fresh herbs, sweet citrus, and toasted cumin, it’s a refreshing complement to any Mediterranean or North African meal.
Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, tagines, or as part of a mezze spread, this beet salad delivers earthy depth and zesty brightness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
- Bursting with fresh, wholesome ingredients
- Delicious hot or cold—perfect for make-ahead meals
- Ideal for summer dinners or festive holiday spreads
Ingredients
Serves 4–6 as a side
- 5 medium beets, cooked, peeled, and diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp cumin seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Beets
Wash and trim the beets. Place them in a large pot and cover with water.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 30–40 minutes or until fork-tender.
Let cool, then peel and dice into bite-sized pieces.
Tip: You can roast the beets instead for deeper flavor—wrap in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45–60 minutes.
2. Toast the Cumin Seeds
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the cumin seeds until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
Watch closely to prevent burning. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine:
- Diced beets
- Sliced red onion
- Chopped cilantro and mint
4. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Orange juice
- Orange zest
- Salt
Pour over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Finish & Serve
Sprinkle the toasted cumin seeds on top just before serving.
You can enjoy this salad immediately or chill it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Moroccan beet salad with:
- Lamb tagine or grilled chicken
- Couscous or warm pita bread
- Other mezze dishes like hummus or baba ganoush
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes even better the next day!
Nutrition Highlights (per serving):
- Calories: ~120
- Fiber: High
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants
Final Thoughts
This Moroccan Beet Salad is a celebration of color, texture, and bright Mediterranean flavor. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to something fresh and wholesome.
Enjoy—and don’t forget to share the love with a drizzle of orange sunshine!