Creamy Beetroot & Yogurt Dip
This vibrant, creamy beetroot and Greek yogurt dip is a high-protein, flavorful snack or appetizer, perfect for pairing with fresh vegetables or crackers. Its earthy sweetness is beautifully balanced by the tangy yogurt and bright lemon.
For 4 servings
Ensure your beets are cooked, peeled, and roughly chopped. If cooking from raw, roast or boil until tender, then peel. Mince the garlic clove.
In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the chopped cooked beets, plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice.
Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the processor bowl a few times to ensure everything is incorporated.
Add the chopped fresh dill, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the beet mixture. Pulse a few times until the dill is evenly distributed.
Taste the dip and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
Transfer the creamy beetroot dip to a serving bowl. If time permits, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Just before serving, drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with additional fresh dill and toasted sesame seeds (or pumpkin seeds) for garnish.
Serve chilled with a variety of dippers such as vegetable sticks (carrots, cucumbers, celery), pita bread, crackers, or as a vibrant spread in sandwiches and wraps.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, roast your beets instead of boiling them. Roasting concentrates their sweetness and adds a deeper, earthier note to the dip.
- 2Adjust the consistency: If the dip is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or a little more yogurt until desired creaminess is achieved. If it's too thin, you might need to add a bit more cooked beet.
- 3Always use fresh lemon juice and dill. The bright, zesty notes from fresh ingredients are crucial for balancing the earthiness of the beets and the richness of the yogurt.
- 4Make ahead: This dip can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve after chilling.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small dash of your favorite hot sauce to the blender for a fiery twist.
Herbaceous SwapHerbaceous Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or chives instead of or in addition to dill for a different aromatic profile.
Nutty TextureNutty Texture
Blend in a tablespoon of toasted walnuts, cashews, or even a spoonful of tahini for added richness and a subtle nutty flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Beets are packed with betalains, powerful antioxidants that help combat cellular damage and inflammation in the body.
Promotes Gut Health
Greek yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support a healthy digestive system and can improve overall gut flora.
High in Protein
The significant protein content from Greek yogurt makes this dip incredibly satisfying, aiding in satiety and supporting muscle repair and growth.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use canned or vacuum-packed cooked beets for convenience. Just be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any excess sodium and pat them dry before using. However, roasted fresh beets will offer the best flavor.
