Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing

Name: Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium beets, peeled and thinly sliced; Salt, to taste; Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish; Juice of 1 orange; Juice of 1 lemon; Olive oil, 3 tablespoons; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely love this Beet Carpaccio with Citrus Dressing because it combines vibrant flavors and colors that truly delight the senses. The earthy sweetness of the beets contrasts beautifully with the zesty citrus dressing, making it an ideal dish for any occasion, whether it's a light lunch or an impressive starter at dinner parties. I love how simple yet elegant this dish is, and the freshness of the citrus elevates the beets in such a surprising way. It’s a perfect representation of how healthy can also mean delicious!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:57:37.800Z

When I first tasted Beet Carpaccio at a small bistro, I was blown away by how simple beets could be transformed into such a gourmet dish. I immediately knew I had to recreate it at home. The trick lies in slicing the beets paper-thin to achieve that classic carpaccio presentation. I recommend using a mandoline for the best results, as it gives you uniform slices that soak up the citrus dressing beautifully.

Another aspect that makes this dish shine is the balance of flavors. The acidity of the citrus dressing cuts through the sweetness of the beets and adds a refreshing zest. I love to garnish with some fresh herbs and a sprinkle of coarse salt for an extra punch. Serving it chilled also enhances the flavors, making it a perfect appetizer.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that impresses
Earthy sweetness of beets balanced by citrus tang
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

The Art of Slicing Beets

When it comes to preparing your beets for this carpaccio, uniformity in slicing is key to achieving the best presentation and texture. Using a mandoline can help you achieve thin, consistent slices that will elevate the dish visually. Aim for slices around 1/8 inch thick. If the slices are too thick, they won’t absorb the dressing as well, and the dish may lose that delicate carpaccio feel.

After slicing, arrange the beets in a single layer without overlapping. This allows the citrus dressing to envelop each slice, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Take your time with this step; a beautiful presentation will impress your guests and enhance your dining experience.

Crafting Your Citrus Dressing

The citrus dressing is not just a flavoring agent; it plays a pivotal role in brightening the earthy tones of the beets. Freshly squeezed juice from an orange and a lemon provides a vibrant contrast to the sweetness of the beets. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using blood orange juice, which adds a sweeter, less acidic profile while still delivering that pop of color.

As you whisk the dressing, watch for a creamy texture, indicating that the olive oil has emulsified properly with the juices. A well-balanced dressing should taste slightly tangy but not overpower. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference, but remember, the beets themselves will also contribute natural sweetness to the final dish.

Ingredients

For the Beet Carpaccio

4 medium beets, peeled and thinly sliced
Salt, to taste
Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for garnish

For the Citrus Dressing

Juice of 1 orange
Juice of 1 lemon
Olive oil, 3 tablespoons
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Beets

Using a mandoline, slice the beets as thin as possible. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a serving platter. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Make the Dressing

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

Assemble the Dish

Drizzle the citrus dressing over the beet slices. Allow it to marinate for at least 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs and additional salt if desired. Serve chilled as a stunning appetizer.

Pro Tips

Using golden or striped beets can add a stunning visual contrast to your dish. Experiment with different citrus fruits for the dressing to find your preferred flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This beet carpaccio is stunning when served as a part of a larger appetizer platter alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers. Consider pairing it with a soft goat cheese, which adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the freshness of the beets and citrus. For added texture, sprinkle on some toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving to provide a delightful crunch.

For a more complete meal, pair your beet carpaccio with a light salad of mixed greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette. This not only helps to balance out the dish but also offers different textures and flavors that contrast nicely with the smooth beet slices.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the beet slices a day in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator with a light sprinkle of salt. This will help them stay fresh while also enhancing their flavors. Just keep the citrus dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the beets from becoming too soggy.

If you have leftovers, they will keep for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. The beets will continue to absorb the dressing, which might intensify the flavors, making for a delicious next-day snack or light lunch. Just be sure to give them a gentle stir to evenly distribute the dressing before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beets for this recipe?

While fresh beets yield the best flavor and texture, you can use canned beets if you're short on time. Rinse them well to remove excess salt.

→ How long can I store leftover beet carpaccio?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

→ What can I serve with beet carpaccio?

This dish pairs wonderfully with goat cheese, toasted nuts, or arugula for added texture and flavor.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, just ensure that all your ingredients, especially the dressing, are plant-based.