Roasted hasselback beets with fresh dill dressing Recipe

If you’re looking to add a stunning and flavorful dish that will impress both your eyes and your taste buds, look no further than these Roasted hasselback beets with fresh dill dressing. This vibrant recipe transforms humble beets into a crispy, tender masterpiece, with beautiful slits that soak up the creamy, tangy dressing made with fresh dill. It’s a symphony of earthy sweetness and bright herbaceous notes that feels both gourmet and comforting, perfect for family dinners or special occasions alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but plays a crucial role in building the vibrant flavors and textures of Roasted hasselback beets with fresh dill dressing. From the earthy beets to the zesty dressing, every component is essential.

• 4 medium-sized beets: Choose firm, smooth-skinned beets for even roasting and better slicing.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a rich base for roasting and helps create those crave-worthy crispy edges.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped: This bright herb adds a fresh, slightly tangy lift to the creamy dressing.
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: Offers creamy texture and a subtle tang that balances the earthiness of beets.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings brightness and zest, elevating the freshness of the dill.
• 1 teaspoon honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to complement the beets.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: A little garlic kick adds savory depth to the dressing.

How to Make Roasted hasselback beets with fresh dill dressing

Step 1: Prep Your Beets for Hasselback Magic

Start by peeling your beets carefully. Using a sharp knife, slice them thinly from the top down but stop about a quarter-inch from the bottom so the slices stay connected and form fanned layers. A handy trick is to balance chopsticks on either side of the beet to prevent cutting all the way through. This method not only looks stunning but allows the olive oil to seep between the slices during roasting.

Step 2: Season and Roast to Perfection

Place your beets on a baking sheet, then drizzle them generously with olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, making sure each slice is lightly coated. Pop the tray into a 400°F (200°C) oven and roast for about 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the beets are tender inside with edges that crisp up just right. The roasting process deepens their natural sweetness and creates a beautiful contrast of textures.

Step 3: Whip Up the Fresh Dill Dressing

While your beets roast, mix together the fresh dill, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic in a bowl. This dressing strikes the perfect balance between tangy, sweet, and savory, making it an ideal companion to the earthiness of the roasted beets. Stir until smooth and let those flavors meld.

Step 4: Serve with a Splash of Green Goodness

Once the beets come out of the oven and cool slightly, drizzle your fresh dill dressing generously over the top. The dressing will settle beautifully into the beet slices, making each bite a delightful combination of creamy and roasted flavors.

How to Serve Roasted hasselback beets with fresh dill dressing

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped dill or parsley sprinkled on top boost the visual appeal and add a fresh pop of flavor. A few toasted pine nuts or walnuts can introduce a lovely crunch that complements the tender beets wonderfully. For an extra hint of zest, scatter some lemon zest over the top before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a standalone side or as part of a larger colorful spread. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a light, balanced meal. Roasted hasselback beets with fresh dill dressing also complement grain bowls featuring quinoa or farro, bringing sweetness and creaminess to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, arrange the beets on a rustic wooden platter and drizzle the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. Alternatively, serve the dressing on the side as a dipping sauce. For a unique salad twist, chop the roasted beets and toss them with the dressing and other fresh veggies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the roasted hasselback beets separately from the dill dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the beets from getting soggy and preserves the fresh flavor of the dressing for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While roasted beets freeze well, the fresh dill dressing does not. For freezing, roast and cool the beets fully, then place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and add freshly made dill dressing when ready to serve.

Reheating

Warm the beets gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture. Once warm, add the fresh dill dressing to retain its creamy, bright profile before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other herbs instead of fresh dill?

Absolutely! While dill offers a unique fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with beets, you can experiment with parsley, tarragon, or chives for different but equally delicious results.

Do I need to peel the beets before roasting?

Peeling is recommended for this recipe because it helps the olive oil and seasoning penetrate better, but you can roast unpeeled beets if you prefer. Just scrub them clean, and the skin will come off easily after roasting.

Is Greek yogurt necessary for the dressing?

Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a pleasant tang, but you can substitute with sour cream or plant-based yogurt alternatives to suit dietary preferences without compromising flavor.

How do I make sure the beet slices don’t fall apart?

The key is to stop slicing about a quarter-inch from the bottom and use chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the beet to avoid cutting all the way through. This keeps the shape intact during roasting.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?

You can roast the beets and prepare the dressing a day ahead, keeping them refrigerated separately. Assemble close to serving time for the freshest presentation and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about making and sharing Roasted hasselback beets with fresh dill dressing. The way the beets fan out like petals, the crisp edges alongside tender centers, and the fresh, creamy dressing come together to create a dish that feels as special as it is simple. Whether you’re adding a pop of color to your weekday dinner or impressing guests with a show-stopping side, this recipe promises to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and delight in every vibrant bite!

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