I LOVE a good dip. Honestly they can make or break a grazing board, they can be the star of the show in wraps and buddha bowls, they can create an amazing base for fancy plated roasted veggie dishes, and don’t even get me started on smashed avo and dip combinations! There needs to be more in the world!

So here I give you one of many dips you’ll discover on my blog, the beetroot tahini dip. I particularly like this dip for a few reasons – it’s sweet without and added sweeteneers, and also is a rarity in the dip world … bean free! Obviously beans are great for protein and bulking out a dip, as well as taste and texture, however sometimes you just want all flavor and reducing that overall calorie count. As well as less ingredients!

So, I hope you enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Beetroot Tahini Dip, a delightful twist on classic hummus. Those earthy roasted beets with creamy tahini, bright lemon, and subtle garlic for a colorful and nutritious appetizer or snack. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or a simple indulgence at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Vibrant Color: The stunning pink hue of this dip adds a burst of color to any table, making it visually appealing for gatherings and parties.
2. Health Benefits: Beets are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Tahini provides a good source of healthy fats and protein.
3. Customizable Flavors: Adjust the seasoning and texture to suit your taste preferences. Add spices like cumin or paprika for a hint of warmth and depth.
4. Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a flavorful snack or appetizer.
5. Impressive Presentation: Serve this dip in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for an impressive presentation that will wow your guests.

Tips and Tricks:

1. Roast the Garlic: For a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic clove along with the beets. This will soften the garlic’s pungency and impart a subtle, sweet flavor to the dip.
2. Adjust Lemon Juice: Start with less lemon juice and add more gradually according to your taste preference. Lemon juice adds brightness to the dip but can overpower other flavors if used excessively.
3. Texture Preference: Blend the ingredients according to your desired texture. For a smooth dip, blend longer; for a chunkier texture, pulse the ingredients briefly.
4. Enhance with Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro to add a pop of freshness to the dip. Finely chop the herbs and fold them into the blended dip before serving.
5. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Before serving, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the dip to enhance its richness and add a glossy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use pre-cooked beets? Yes, pre-cooked beets can be used to save time. You can find these in the produce section of many grocery stores or use leftover roasted beets from a previous meal.
2. How long does this dip last? When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this dip will keep well for 4-5 days. Stir well before serving leftovers.
3. Can I freeze this dip? While technically you can freeze this dip, the texture may change upon thawing due to the water content in the beets. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
4. What can I serve with this dip? This Beetroot Tahini Dip pairs beautifully with pita chips, fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, cucumber), crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
5. How can I reduce the earthy flavor of beets? Roasting the beets can help mellow their earthy flavor. You can also balance the earthiness with a bit more lemon juice or a touch of honey for sweetness.

Why make your own dip? I’ll tell you!

1. Reduced Packaging Waste: Making your own dips at home reduces reliance on store-bought packaged dips, leading to less plastic waste from containers.
2. Fresh Ingredients: By using fresh, whole ingredients like beets and tahini, you avoid the excess packaging and additives often found in commercial dips.
3. Supports Local Farmers: Purchasing fresh produce from local farmers’ markets or organic stores supports sustainable agriculture practices and reduces the carbon footprint of your food.
4. Minimizes Food Waste: Homemade dips allow you to use up leftover ingredients efficiently, reducing food waste in your kitchen.
5. Quality Control: Making dips from scratch enables you to control the quality and sourcing of ingredients, promoting healthier and more sustainable food choices.

What to buy and how:

1. Choosing Beets: Look for beets that are firm, smooth-skinned, and free of soft spots or blemishes. Opt for organic beets when possible to minimize exposure to pesticides.
2. Selecting Tahini: Choose high-quality tahini made from 100% sesame seeds without added oils or preservatives. Stir the tahini well before using to incorporate the natural oils.
3. Fresh Lemons: Select fresh, plump lemons with a smooth, vibrant skin. Organic lemons are preferable, especially if you plan to use the zest for added flavor.
4. Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and health benefits. Look for reputable brands that indicate the harvest date for freshness.
5. Garlic Selection: Opt for fresh garlic cloves with tight, firm skins. Mellow the garlic’s bite by soaking it in lemon juice for 10 minutes before using in the dip. This process reduces the sharpness of raw garlic, resulting in a smoother flavor profile. Alternatively you can roast your garlic for a deeper taste.

So that’s it! I hope you enjoy this exciting dip and play around with its versatility! Enjoy!