Moroccan Beet Salad

Name: Moroccan Beet Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 5 medium red beets; 2 teaspoons orange zest; ½ cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1½ teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ small red onion; ¼ cup fresh mint leaves; ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves

Published: July 2, 2025

by Emilia

Pinterest Facebook WhatsApp X Yummly

A Moroccan Beet Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brightens any table. This salad combines earthy beets with zesty orange and fragrant herbs, making it perfect for various occasions—from casual lunches to festive gatherings. Not only is it vegan, but it’s also easy to prepare in advance, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dish without any last-minute stress.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is straightforward for any home cook.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet beets, tangy orange juice, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Make Ahead Option: This salad can be prepared up to five days in advance, making it a convenient choice for meal prep or entertaining.
Versatile Serving Ideas: Serve it as a side dish, a main course for a light meal, or even as part of a buffet spread.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals, this salad supports a healthy diet while being low in calories.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Moroccan Beet Salad effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Preparing your ingredients with the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Tin foil
Large mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet helps evenly roast the beets without losing any juices.
Tin foil: Wrapping the beets in tin foil keeps them moist while roasting, enhancing their flavor.
Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.

Ingredients

A simple, herby, orange-dressed Moroccan beet salad that can be made up to five days ahead of time, and it’s vegan, too? It sounds too good to be true, but this salad recipe is the real deal, folks!

For the Salad

5 medium red beets, trimmed and washed
2 teaspoons orange zest (from 1 orange)
½ cup fresh orange juice (from 2 oranges)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ small red onion, halved and cut into ¼-inch-thick slices
¼ cup packed fresh mint leaves, plus more for serving
¼ cup minced fresh cilantro leaves, plus more for serving
Flaky salt, for serving (optional)

How to Make Moroccan Beet Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F with a rack positioned in the center.

Step 2: Roast the Beets

Place each beet on a square of tin foil large enough to cover completely.
Wrap the foil around the beet loosely, ensuring that the opening is sealed.
Place wrapped beets on a rimmed baking sheet and roast until tender—this will take about 40 to 50 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Beets for Salad

Once roasted:
1. Remove the beets from the oven and let them rest until cool enough to handle.
2. Using a paper towel, gently rub off the skins and discard them.
3. Cut the beets into 2-inch pieces.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl:
Combine orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, ground cumin, and kosher salt.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add:
The roasted beet pieces,
Sliced onions,
Mint leaves,
Cilantro leaves.

Gently toss everything together until the beets are evenly coated with dressing.

Step 6: Serve

Serve family-style with flaky salt sprinkled on top if desired. Garnish with additional mint and cilantro as preferred.

How to Serve Moroccan Beet Salad

This vibrant Moroccan beet salad is perfect for any occasion. Its fresh flavors and colorful presentation make it a delightful addition to your table.

As a Standalone Dish

Serve chilled: This salad tastes even better when served cold, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish with nuts: Add toasted walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and richness.

With Grains

Pair with quinoa: The nutty flavor of quinoa complements the earthiness of beets perfectly.
Serve over couscous: Fluffy couscous makes a great base for this colorful salad.

As Part of a Platter

Include in a mezze platter: Create a stunning spread by adding hummus, olives, and pita bread alongside the salad.
Add to a charcuterie board: This salad provides a refreshing contrast to meats and cheeses.

How to Perfect Moroccan Beet Salad

To ensure your Moroccan beet salad is unforgettable, follow these simple tips.

Choose fresh beets: Fresh, firm beets will enhance the overall texture and flavor of your salad.
Experiment with herbs: Try adding parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.
Adjust acidity: If you prefer a tangier taste, add more orange juice or a splash of vinegar.
Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for at least an hour before serving will deepen the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Moroccan Beet Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Moroccan beet salad can elevate your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

Crispy Falafel: These flavorful chickpea balls provide protein and a satisfying crunch.
Roasted Vegetable Medley: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the sweetness of beets perfectly.
Grilled Halloumi Cheese: The salty, grilled cheese adds a delicious contrast to the earthy flavors of the salad.
Couscous Salad: A light couscous dish with lemon and herbs will enhance the Moroccan theme of your meal.
Hummus Platter: Serve creamy hummus alongside pita chips for dipping—great for balancing out the meal.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and spices make for an appealing side that pairs well with beets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Moroccan Beet Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

Skipping the roasting: Many might consider boiling beets instead of roasting them. Roasting enhances the flavor and sweetness of the beets, so always roast for the best taste.
Not letting beets cool: Rushing to peel the beets while they’re hot can lead to burns and uneven peeling. Allow them to cool for easier handling and a cleaner peel.
Ignoring seasoning balance: Failing to adjust salt and acidity can dull the flavors. Always taste your salad mixture before serving and adjust as necessary.
Using old herbs: Fresh herbs make a big difference in this salad. Ensure your mint and cilantro are fresh for maximum flavor and aroma.
Neglecting presentation: Serving without garnishing can make the dish look less appealing. Always add extra mint or cilantro on top for a beautiful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Moroccan Beet Salad in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Freezing Moroccan Beet Salad

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the beets and herbs.
If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container, but consume within one month for best quality.

Reheating Moroccan Beet Salad

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, then place the salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Warm until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl with a lid; heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Moroccan Beet Salad that might help you in your culinary journey.

What is Moroccan Beet Salad?

Moroccan Beet Salad is a vibrant dish made with roasted beets, fresh herbs, and an orange dressing that brightens its flavors.

Can I make Moroccan Beet Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad up to five days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover Moroccan Beet Salad can last up to five days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I change the herbs in Moroccan Beet Salad?

Absolutely! While mint and cilantro are traditional, feel free to experiment with parsley or other fresh herbs you enjoy.

Is Moroccan Beet Salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Moroccan Beet Salad is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you want to add nuts for crunch or swap out herbs based on what you have on hand, this recipe allows creativity. Give it a try; you’ll love how refreshing it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card