Beet and Cucumber Salad

Refreshingly crisp and vibrant, this beet and cucumber salad is packed with flavor and it's guilt free. The combination of pickled beets and cool, crunchy cucumbers creates a perfect harmony of flavors. It's tossed with a zesty lemon dijon and honey dressing then garnished with fresh dill. This salad is a colorful and healthy addition to any meal.

Beet and cucumber salad is the perfect summer or spring salad that will cool you down after a long day. This recipe is made easy because I wanted to use pickled beets instead of fresh beets. Doing this saves the extra step of peeling, baking, and seasoning the raw beets. Plus pickled beets add so much flavor to the salad and compliment the fresh cucumber so well. I'm eager for you to try this delicious simple salad. 

If you love beets as much as I do I highly recommend checking out my other beet recipes which include easy butternut beetroot and feta salad, and fresh beet and watermelon salad. Butternut squash and beet go so well together in the fall while watermelon and beets are a perfect way to cool down this summer.

Why You'll Love Beet and Cucumber Salad 

Refreshing and Light: Beet cucumber salad is a perfect choice for those seeking a light and refreshing dish. The combination of cool cucumbers and sweet, earthy pickled beets provides a delightful contrast of flavors that is incredibly satisfying. You'll feel good eating it too! 

Nutrient-Packed: Both beets and cucumbers are known for their high nutritional content. It's a delicious and great way to get in your daily serving of vegetables. Beets are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, while cucumbers are hydrating, low in calories, and a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin K and potassium.

Vibrant Colors: The vibrant colors of beets and cucumbers in the beet and feta salad make it visually appealing. The deep, ruby-red hue of the beets and the bright green color of the cucumbers create a beautiful presentation that adds to the overall dining experience.

Versatile and Customizable: Cucumber and beetroot salad is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit individual tastes. You can add additional ingredients or change up the dressing to enhance the flavors and textures according to your preference. We will get more into this later. 

Easy to Prepare: Beet cucumber dill salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it a convenient option for a healthy meal or side dish. By using pickled beets, there's no need to spend extra time in the kitchen peeling and roasting the beets. Simply prep the ingredients and toss together to complete the healthy salad. 

Great for Seasonal Eating: Beets and cucumbers are often in abundance during the summer months, making it an excellent choice for seasonal eating. By incorporating locally sourced produce into your salad, you can enjoy the freshest flavors while supporting local farmers. You may even consider growing your own beets or cucumbers if you have a green thumb! 

Is Beet and Cucumber Salad Healthy? 

Yes, this cucumber beet salad recipe is a healthy choice. You'll feel good eating it and it'll keep you feeling good after. Beets and cucumbers are both low-calorie vegetables that offer a range of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Beets are particularly high in folate, manganese, and potassium, while cucumbers are hydrating and provide nutrients like vitamin K and vitamin C. Cucumbers have a high water content, making them hydrating and refreshing. 

Both beets and cucumbers are good sources of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety. Fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels, support weight management, and promote a healthy gut. One of my favorite benefits is that beets contain natural pigments called betalains, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help protect against oxidative stress and promote overall health.

Ingredients 

For The Pickled Beet and Cucumber Salad 

2 cups pickled beets sliced - I recommend using your favorite brand of pickled beets. If you don't care much for pickled beets, you may consider using canned beets as an alternative to make a canned beet salad. They have a delicious earthy flavor and are another quick and convenient option. The salad with canned beets won't be quite as flavorful but the canned beets salad will be delicious. 

4-5 baby cucumbers sliced - I prefer baby cucumbers, especially in this salad and our Buckwheat Salad. I chose to use baby cucumbers in this easy recipe because they share a similar height to many pickled beets which are smaller in nature. English cucumber or persian cucumbers can be substituted but I recommend chopping to reflect a similar size to the beets.

4oz feta cheese - Who doesn't love cheese on a salad? Feta brings color, salty flavors, and creates a delicious taste that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients. I recommend using crumbled feta cheese. Goat cheese can be substituted to make a delicious beet cucumber goat cheese salad. 

1/4 cup fresh dill - Fresh mint leaves, parsley, thyme or any other fresh herbs can be substituted 

For The Dressing 

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - You should only need 1/2 large lemon for this 

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - consider using an olive oil infused with garlic, or fresh herbs 

1 tablespoon honey - Try using local honey for help with allergies this season, maple syrup or agave can be substituted 

1 teaspoon dijon mustard - Adds tanginess and even more flavor 

kosher salt and pepper to taste - To enhance the other ingredients 

Instructions 

Step 1. In a large bowl add the pickled beets, baby cucumbers, feta cheese, and fresh dill. Stir until well combined. 

Step 2. In a separate small bowl whisk together all the ingredients for the lemon dijon dressing 

Step 3. Pour the dressing over the beets and cucumber and stir until the beets and cucumber are covered. 

Step 4. Place plastic wrap over the bowl and let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to come together. 

Must Try Variations for Cucumber Beetroot Salad

Mediterranean Twist: Add some Mediterranean flavors to your beetroot cucumber salad by adding Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. The salty feta and tangy olives pair beautifully with the sweetness of the beets and refreshing cucumbers. If using the lemon dijon honey dressing you can substitute the lemon juice for red wine vinegar. 

Citrus Burst: Add a citrusy kick to your cucumber and beet salad by including segments of oranges, grapefruits, or blood oranges. The juicy citrus fruits complement the earthy beets and provide a burst of freshness. Top it off with the lemon dijon honey dressing or opt for a balsamic vinegar instead of the lemon juice. For extra gorgeous color variation add some golden beets along with the red beats. 

Creamy Avocado: Add some creaminess to your beets and cucumber salad by incorporating sliced ripe avocados. Mix them with the beets and cucumbers. Add some cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. For the dressing, blend avocado, lime juice, Greek yogurt, garlic, and a pinch of salt for a creamy and tangy dressing.

Sweet and Spicy: Create a balance of sweet and spicy flavors by combining sliced beets, sliced cucumbers, diced mango or pineapple, and chopped jalapeños or red chili peppers. Toss the salad with the dressing in the ingredients list, and garnish with fresh mint or cilantro for a refreshing and zesty experience.

Ways to Serve Beet and Cucumber Salad 

Side Dish: Serve the beet and cucumber salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. Its vibrant colors and flavors will complement a variety of main courses.

Salad Bowl: Present the beet and cucumber salad in a large salad bowl as a standalone dish. This is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or buffets. Be sure to garnish with some extra fresh herbs and crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch.

Lettuce Cups: For a unique twist, serve the beet and cucumber salad in lettuce cups. Choose large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, and fill them with the salad mixture. This provides a refreshing and crunchy alternative to traditional salads.

Mason Jar Salads: Prepare individual servings of beet and cucumber salad in mason jars. Layer the ingredients, starting with the dressing at the bottom, followed by the beets, cucumbers, and remaining ingredients. Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve. Mason jar salads are convenient for meal prepping or on-the-go lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I use Fresh Beets Instead? 

Yes you certainly can use fresh beets in the beet salad with dill. Using freshly roasted beets one of the most common ways to make this recipe. Consider roasting the beets in the oven, softening them in the instant pot, or even the slow cooker. These are all simple and delicious ways to enhance their natural sweetness and bring out their flavors in this delicious recipe. Below are some simple instructions on how to make beets in these ways. 

In the oven:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim and scrub the beets to remove dirt. Pat dry with a paper towel. Cut the beets into uniform-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for about 40-60 minutes or until the beets can easily be pierced with a fork. Once the beets are cooked and tender, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you left the skin on, it should easily slide off by gently rubbing or peeling it away with your fingers. You can also use a knife to assist in peeling, if needed. Let cool completely before adding to the salad. 

In the instant pot:

Start by trimming off the beet greens (if still attached) and scrubbing the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can leave the skin on or peel it before cooking. Cut the beets into quarters or smaller pieces. Place the trivet or a steamer basket in the Instant Pot. Add one cup of water to the pot. Arrange the beets on top of the trivet or in the steamer basket.

Close the lid and ensure the vent is set to the sealing position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and cook for 12 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully switch the vent to the "Venting" position to release any remaining steam until the float valve drops. Open the Instant Pot lid carefully, facing away from you to avoid the hot steam. Check the beets for doneness by inserting a fork or knife. They should be tender and easily pierced. Let cool completely before adding to the salad. 

In the slow cooker:

Start by trimming off the beet greens (if still attached) and scrubbing the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can leave the skin on or peel it before cooking. Cut the beets into quarters or smaller pieces. Place the beet pieces in the slow cooker. Add enough water or broth to cover the beets partially. You don't need to fully submerge them, as they will release their own juices as they cook. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 or on high for 2-3 hours. Check the beets for doneness by inserting a fork or knife. They should be tender and easily pierced. Let cool completely before adding to the salad. 

Do Beets and Cucumbers Go Well Together? 

Yes, beets and cucumbers are a wonderful combination in salads. They offer a contrast of flavors and textures that complement each other well. Beets have a natural earthy and slightly sweet flavor, while cucumbers are crisp, refreshing, and mildly sweet. When combined, the sweet and earthy notes of the beets are balanced by the fresh and cooling taste of cucumbers. There's also a delicious texture contrast. Beets have a tender and slightly firm texture, while cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch. This makes the salad more interesting and satisfying.

Is Beetroot and Cucumber Salad Good for Weight Loss? 

Yes, beetroot and cucumber salad can aid in weight loss. Both beets and cucumbers are low in calories, making them ideal for weight loss. They provide essential nutrients and fiber while keeping calorie intake in check, allowing you to create a satisfying and nutritious salad without excessive energy intake. They are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes feelings of fullness and can help control appetite. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can contribute to weight loss by reducing overall calorie intake.

Storing 

To store beet and cucumber salad place the salad in an airtight container or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The longer the salad sits the more the flavors may blend together and the texture may change. Because of this, I recommended you eat it relatively soon after preparing for optimal taste and texture.

If you plan to store the salad for a longer duration, you can keep the salad dressing separate and combine them just before serving. This prevents the salad from becoming too watery and helps maintain the crispness of the cucumber. When you're ready to serve the salad, give it a gentle toss to distribute the dressing and ensure the flavors are well incorporated.

Note: Keep in mind that beets have a vibrant red color that can bleed onto other ingredients. If you're storing the salad with other components, be aware that they may become stained with the beet juice, altering their appearance.

More Easy Recipes You'll Love 

Orzo Salad with Pesto

Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl

Pesto Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Bang Bang Shrimp Salad

Salmon Kale Caesar Salad