Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing

Name: Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium beets, cooked and thinly sliced; 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh arugula or mixed greens; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon orange juice; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fusion Meals

I absolutely adore this Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing! The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it a delightful addition to any meal. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was enchanted by the idea of transforming humble beets into an elegant appetizer. The citrus dressing elevates the earthy sweetness of the beets, while the crunchy nuts add a satisfying texture. I guarantee this dish will impress both your guests and your taste buds, turning any gathering into a special occasion.

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:57:35.881Z

When I first made Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing for friends, I was amazed by how well the flavors melded together. The vibrant beets paired with the zesty dressing created a dish that was not only visually stunning but also packed with flavors. Using fresh citrus juice enhances the natural sweetness of the beets in a surprisingly refreshing way.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the beets marinate in the dressing for at least a few minutes before serving. This allows them to soak up the citrus notes, elevating the entire experience. Trust me, this simple step makes all the difference in flavor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A beautiful presentation that is sure to impress your guests
Bright citrus notes that perfectly complement the earthy beets
Nutty crunch that adds texture and flavor contrast

      

Choosing the Right Beets

When selecting beets for your carpaccio, look for medium-sized ones that are firm and smooth without any blemishes. Fresh organic beets often yield the best flavor and vibrant color, which will enhance the presentation of your dish. If possible, opt for beets in varied colors—like golden or striped varieties—this will add visual interest to your plate, making your dish as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.

While fresh beets are ideal, pre-cooked or canned beets can save time if you're in a pinch. Just be sure to choose those without added sugars or preservatives. When using pre-cooked beets, rinse them gently if they're packed in liquid to avoid excess saltiness that may compete with the citrus dressing.

Perfecting Your Citrus Dressing

The citrus dressing is vital as it brightens the earthy flavors of the beets. A freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice will give your dressing a zing that bottled juices can't replicate. Feel free to adjust the acidity to your taste; if you prefer a tangier taste, increase the lemon juice slightly. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, like grapefruit, for an unexpected twist.

To achieve the right consistency, whisk the dressing until it is emulsified, which should take about 30 seconds. This not only incorporates the flavors but also helps the dressing cling beautifully to the beets. If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a teaspoon of yogurt or a splash of Dijon mustard.

Serving Suggestions

Beet Carpaccio makes for a stunning appetizer or a light lunch, and serving it on a chilled plate can enhance its visual elegance. Pair the dish with a glass of chilled white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the dish's citrus notes wonderfully. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein, such as grilled shrimp or chicken, which can elevate the dish into a full main course.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, prepare the beets and dressing separately. Store the beet slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and prepare the dressing the day before to allow the flavors to meld. Just be sure to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness of the greens.

Ingredients

For the Beet Carpaccio

2 medium beets, cooked and thinly sliced
1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup fresh arugula or mixed greens
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Citrus Dressing

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Beets

Place the cooked beets on a cutting board and slice them thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Arrange the beet slices on a serving plate in an overlapping pattern.

Make the Citrus Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Dish

Drizzle the Citrus Dressing over the arranged beets. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and place a handful of arugula or mixed greens on top. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Serve

Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy your beautiful Beet Carpaccio!

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, add some crumbled feta cheese on top just before serving. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or greens based on your preference.

Storage and Meal Prep

To maximize freshness, store any leftover Beet Carpaccio in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Beets are hearty, but the greens will wilt quickly, so keep them separate until you're ready to enjoy the dish again. If you find that the citrus dressing has thickened in the fridge, simply whisk in a tablespoon of water or additional citrus juice to loosen it before serving.

If you're preparing this dish for a gathering, consider making a larger batch of beet slices ahead of time and doubling the dressing recipe. The beets can be cooked, sliced, and refrigerated up to three days in advance, making day-of assembly quick and hassle-free.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your dressing turns out too acidic, balance it with a bit more honey or maple syrup. This not only counteracts the acidity but enhances the overall flavor of the dressing. Conversely, if it's too sweet, a splash more citrus juice should bring it back to a delightful tang. Making adjustments early in the process helps avoid any last-minute stress during presentation.

When arranging the beet slices, avoid overlapping them too much, as this can make the dish look flat. Instead, aim for a fanned-out presentation that shows off the vibrant colors of the beets. If you're having trouble with presentation, feel free to use a ring mold to help shape it on the plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use raw beets instead of cooked?

Yes, you can use raw beets, but they will need to be thinly sliced and may require a longer marinating time to soften.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

The beet carpaccio can be prepared a few hours in advance, but it's best to add the dressing and greens just before serving to maintain freshness.

→ What can I substitute for walnuts?

If you have nut allergies, you can substitute seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch without the nuts.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, this dish is entirely vegan, especially if you use maple syrup in the dressing instead of honey.