Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing

Name: Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium-sized beets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons orange juice; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; Zest of 1 orange; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Authentic Inspiration

I love serving Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing as a light starter or as a colorful addition to my meal prep. The vibrant colors of the beets combined with the tangy citrus dressing create a dish that not only tastes amazing but is also visually stunning. Preparing the beets ahead of time makes this dish quick to assemble, allowing the fresh flavors to shine through. The balance of earthiness from the beets and the bright acidity of the citrus is simply delightful, making it a favorite at family gatherings and dinner parties.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:41:36.200Z

When I first decided to create a Beet Carpaccio, I wanted to make something that was both healthy and visually impressive. The vibrant color of the beets caught my eye, and pairing it with a citrus dressing seemed like a natural choice. I slow-roast the beets to enhance their sweetness, allowing the earthy flavor to harmonize beautifully with the acidity of lemon and orange zest.

After a few attempts, I discovered that letting the dish sit for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Garnishing with fresh herbs like dill or arugula adds another layer of flavor that delights the palate. Each bite is a celebration of texture and taste!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The natural sweetness of roasted beets balanced with vibrant citrus tang
A visually stunning presentation that impresses guests
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion

Exploring the Ingredients

The key to a delightful Beet Carpaccio lies in the quality of your ingredients. Choose fresh, firm beets, preferably organic, as they tend to have a richer flavor and vibrant color. The sweetness of the beets enhances the dish, complementing the citrus tones beautifully. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked beets available in grocery stores, but make sure to check the ingredients for any added preservatives or sugars that can alter the dish's flavor profile.

The citrus dressing is equally important, as it ties all the flavors together. Freshly squeezed juices, whether from an orange or lemon, create a bright and zesty flavor that bottled alternatives simply cannot match. The addition of zest introduces aromatic oils, enriching the dressing’s profile. For a vegan variation, substituting honey with maple syrup will maintain sweetness without sacrificing flavor.

Mastering the Roasting Technique

Roasting the beets is a critical step that enhances their natural sweetness while developing a tender texture. When wrapping the beets in aluminum foil, ensure they are fully enclosed to trap steam, which aids in cooking. After 60 minutes in a preheated oven, check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily. If your beets are still firm, continue roasting in 10-minute intervals until they are tender. This method of cooking not only intensifies their flavor but also elevates the dish visually, as the vibrant colors emerge when sliced.

Once roasted, allow the beets to cool covered for about 10 minutes. This not only makes them easier to handle but also helps to retain their moisture and flavor. When peeling, do so under running water or with gloves to avoid staining your hands. Thinly slicing the beets is essential; aim for 1/8-inch thick slices for a delicate and elegant presentation. Use a sharp mandoline for uniformity, which not only looks professional but ensures even flavor distribution with the dressing.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beet Carpaccio

2 medium-sized beets
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Citrus Dressing

2 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

Make sure to handle the beets with care, as they can stain your hands!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Beet Carpaccio:

Roast the Beets

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 60 minutes or until tender. Let them cool, then peel and slice thinly.

Prepare the Citrus Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, honey, orange zest, and lemon zest. Mix well until the honey is dissolved.

Assemble the Dish

On a serving platter, arrange the beet slices in an overlapping pattern. Drizzle the citrus dressing over the beets, and season with salt and pepper.

Garnish and Serve

Finish with fresh dill if using, and serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to enhance the flavors.

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of goat cheese or feta on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Beet Carpaccio is visually striking on its own, but you can elevate it further by adding toppings. Consider crumbled feta or goat cheese for creaminess and added flavor contrast. If you prefer a nutty crunch, toasted walnuts or pistachios make excellent additions. Present the dish with a sprinkle of microgreens or arugula for an extra pop of color and freshness, enhancing both the taste and presentation.

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the beets and dressing ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to serve, simply slice the beets, drizzle with dressing, and garnish. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while still presenting a fresh appearance at mealtime.

Variations to Try

Experimenting with different citrus fruits can lead to exciting variations of this dish. Swap out the orange and lemon for grapefruit juice and zest for a more bittersweet flavor, or incorporate lime for an extra tang. This not only diversifies the taste but also allows you to tailor the dish according to seasonal availability or your personal preference.

For those seeking additional nutrient benefits, consider layering in leafy greens like spinach or kale beneath the beet slices. They can add a delightful textural contrast and boost the nutritional profile. You might also explore adding roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus alongside the beets for a more robust dish, making it a perfect centerpiece for a plant-based meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the beets in advance?

Yes, roasted beets can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the dish.

→ What other dressings work well with beet carpaccio?

A balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing can also complement the flavors nicely.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, as long as you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.

→ Can I use raw beets instead?

Raw beets can be used, but they will have a different texture and flavor than roasted beets.