Beetroot Salad Recipe – Peanuts, Cumin & Indian Spice Blend

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Beetroot Salad Recipe – Peanuts, Cumin & Indian Spice Blend

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for ways to sneak more veggies into your life – and make them delicious while you’re at it. This beetroot salad is a total game-changer. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to throw together. I first made this when I was trying to find a quick, healthy side dish for a summer barbecue, and it’s been a staple ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average salad. The earthy sweetness of beetroot gets a fantastic kick from roasted peanuts, a zing of citrus, and the warm, aromatic touch of roasted cumin. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and tastes that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just 10 minutes! It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant salad:

• 1 lb beetroot (about 450g)
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts (about 60g)
• 5 cilantro sprigs
• Green chilies, to taste
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped (about 75g)
• Lemon/lime juice, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp roasted cumin powder (about 5g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Beetroot: We’ll get into beetroot varieties in a bit, but any kind will work. Just make sure it’s fresh and firm.
• Roasted Peanuts: These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. You can buy them pre-roasted, or roast them yourself (more on that later!).
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a must! It adds a bright, herbaceous note. If you’re not a cilantro fan, you could try parsley, though the flavor will be different.
• Green Chilies: Adjust the amount to your spice preference. I usually use one small green chili, finely chopped.
• Lemon/Lime Juice: I like a mix of both for a more complex citrus flavor, but either one works beautifully.
• Roasted Cumin Powder: This is key. It adds a warm, smoky depth that really elevates the salad.

Beetroot Varieties & Selection

There are so many types of beetroot these days! You’ll commonly find:

• Red Beetroot: The classic, with a deep, earthy flavor.
• Golden Beetroot: Milder and sweeter than red beetroot.
• Chioggia Beetroot: Also known as candy stripe beetroot, it has beautiful concentric rings and a slightly sweeter taste.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match for a colorful salad! When selecting beetroot, look for firm, smooth roots without any soft spots.

Roasted Peanuts: Preparing or Buying

While pre-roasted peanuts are super convenient, roasting your own takes the flavor to another level. To roast peanuts at home, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant. Let them cool completely before crushing.

The Significance of Roasted Cumin Powder in Indian Cuisine

Roasted cumin powder isn’t just a spice; it’s a cornerstone of Indian cooking. Roasting the cumin seeds before grinding them unlocks a deeper, more complex flavor. It adds warmth, earthiness, and a subtle smokiness to dishes. My grandmother always said a pinch of roasted cumin powder can “wake up” any recipe!

Regional Variations in Beetroot Salads

Beetroot is enjoyed across India, and there are tons of regional variations in how it’s prepared. In some parts of West Bengal, you’ll find beetroot stir-fried with mustard oil and panch phoron (a five-spice blend). In Maharashtra, it’s often grated and used in salads with coconut and green chilies. This recipe is a bit of a fusion, drawing inspiration from different regional flavors.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, shred the beetroot. You can use a box grater or a food processor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded beetroot, crushed roasted peanuts, chopped cilantro, finely chopped green chilies, and finely chopped onion.
3. Now, add the lemon/lime juice, salt, and roasted cumin powder.
4. Toss everything together really well, making sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. More lemon juice for tanginess? A pinch more salt? Go for it!
6. For the best flavor, pop it in the fridge for about an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. (But honestly, if you’re impatient, you can eat it right away!)

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Achieving the Perfect Balance of Flavors: The key is to taste as you go! Adjust the lemon juice, salt, and chili to your liking.
• Tips for Roasting Peanuts at Home: Keep a close eye on them while they’re roasting, as they can burn quickly.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the beetroot mushy. Gently toss everything together until just combined.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Mild to Spicy): Use less green chili for a milder salad, or add more for a fiery kick. You can even remove the seeds from the chili to reduce the heat.
• Festival Adaptation: Navratri/Fasting Friendly: During Navratri fasting, you can omit the onion and use rock salt (sendha namak) instead of regular salt.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or paneer.
• Enjoy it as a light lunch with a side of roti or naan.
• Add a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
• My friend, Priya, loves to serve it with a sprinkle of chaat masala for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The beetroot might release some liquid as it sits, but it will still taste delicious!

FAQs

What is the best way to cook beetroot for this salad?

You don’t actually need to cook the beetroot for this salad! Raw, shredded beetroot works perfectly. However, if you prefer a softer texture, you can roast or boil the beetroot until tender before shredding it.

Can I use store-bought roasted cumin powder, or is freshly roasted better?

Store-bought is perfectly fine for convenience. But if you really want to elevate the flavor, freshly roasting and grinding your own cumin seeds is worth the effort.

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it up to a day in advance. The flavors actually develop even more as it sits.

What other nuts can I substitute for peanuts?

Cashews, walnuts, or almonds would all be delicious substitutes.

Is this salad suitable for a weight-loss diet?

Absolutely! Beetroot is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a weight-loss diet. Just be mindful of the amount of peanuts you use, as they are higher in fat.