Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
If you’re looking for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both quick to make and bursts with flavor, Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is an absolute must-try. Imagine juicy, spice-laden beef patties, perfectly paired with creamy hummus and a refreshing, tangy salad—all coming together on your plate with a rainbow of colors and a fabulous Middle Eastern aroma. This dish brings friends and family to the table in no time and disappears even faster. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a sunny weekend get-together, Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad delivers bold flavor and joyful sharing in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad lies in a handful of kitchen staples, each one adding its own punch of color, texture, or rich, earthy spice. Here’s what you’ll need to build layers of flavor that come together with ease.
- Ground beef (85% lean): The star of the kefta, this provides luscious juiciness while holding together well on the skillet or grill.
- Onion, finely grated: Melts seamlessly into the beef for extra flavor and moisture.
- Garlic, minced: Essential for that classic kefta aroma—don’t be shy!
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Lends amazing freshness to both the kefta and the salad.
- Ground cumin: This warming, earthy spice forms kefta’s aromatic base.
- Ground coriander: Adds subtle citrusy depth that really sets this recipe apart.
- Paprika: For color and a touch of gentle sweetness.
- Salt: Crucial for bringing out every complex flavor.
- Black pepper: A little heat and an essential backbone to the seasoning.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): If you love a bit of a kick, just a pinch lifts the dish.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking and dressing, this lends richness to both kefta and salad.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved: Little bursts of sweetness and color in your vibrant salad.
- Cucumber, diced: Crisp, cool, and refreshing—salad would be lost without it!
- Red onion, finely diced: Adds a little sharpness and bold color to the salad.
- Lemon juice: Brings brightness and tang, tying all salad ingredients together.
- Hummus: Creamy and luscious, it sets the stage for the kefta and salad to shine.
- Warm pita bread (optional): Perfect for scooping and soaking up every last bit.
- Extra parsley for garnish: The finishing touch for both flavor and presentation.
- Pinch of salt and pepper (for salad): To season the vegetables just right.
How to Make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Kefta Mixture
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, black pepper, and a little cayenne if you like some heat. Use your hands or a large spoon to gently mix everything until just evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overwork it, so your Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad stays juicy and tender.
Step 2: Shape the Kefta
Form the mixture into small oval patties (about the size of a large egg) or thread them onto skewers for a fun twist. Ovals work perfectly for skillet cooking, and skewers make them party-perfect—either way, you get that signature Middle Eastern look and feel.
Step 3: Cook the Kefta
Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the kefta in the pan, giving them room to sizzle. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. For extra flavor and a hint of smokiness, you can also grill your kefta—just brush with oil and grill until charred and juicy. This step is where the magic aroma of Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad really fills your kitchen!
Step 4: Make the Tomato Cucumber Salad
While the kefta is cooking, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil in a bowl. Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, red onion, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together so the veggies are coated with that bright, tangy dressing—it’s the kind of salad you’ll want to eat straight from the bowl.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
This is where it all comes together! Spread a generous layer of hummus onto individual plates or a large serving platter. Arrange the hot, sizzling kefta either right on top or nestled beside the hummus. Spoon a mound of tomato cucumber salad to the side, and shower with more chopped parsley. If you like, add warm pita on the side for scooping. That’s the beauty of Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: every bite is a little adventure.
How to Serve Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a few mint leaves does wonders for both color and taste. For a final flourish, you might drizzle a swirl of good olive oil over the hummus or scatter some toasted pine nuts on top. Little touches like these make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad truly inviting.
Side Dishes
This plate is a feast on its own, but you can round things out with warm pita, fluffy rice pilaf, or even a side of grilled veggies. For a touch of dairy, a spoonful of creamy labneh works beautifully. These sides soak up all the savory juices and bring balance to the meal’s hearty elements.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad as part of a larger Middle Eastern spread—think big platters, family-style! For parties, make mini kefta sliders with pita or assemble salad-filled pita pockets for a fun, hand-held version. Whether plated individually or arranged on a colorful platter, this dish beams with hospitality and rustic elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the kefta cool to room temperature before transferring them into an airtight container. Keep the salad and hummus separate to maintain freshness. Stored this way, your Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad will stay delicious for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing
The cooked kefta patties freeze beautifully! Cool them completely, then wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. The salad, however, is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well due to its high-water content.
Reheating
To reheat kefta, warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or cover loosely and microwave in short bursts until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Once warmed, assemble with fresh salad and hummus for a revived Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad that tastes just-made.
FAQs
Can I use lamb or chicken instead of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap in ground lamb for a more traditional richness or opt for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative. Adjust seasoning to your taste, and the rest of the preparation for Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad remains exactly the same.
What if I don’t have skewers—can I still make kefta?
Yes! Shaping your kefta into oval patties works perfectly. Just cook them directly in the skillet or on the grill; they’ll hold together nicely and deliver all that signature flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply skip the pita bread or use a gluten-free version. Everything else in Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it with confidence.
Is there a dairy-free option for the hummus?
Traditional hummus is already dairy-free, so you’re in the clear! If you want to switch things up, try baba ghanoush, another creamy, plant-based dip that pairs beautifully with the kefta and salad.
Can I prepare any part of this in advance for entertaining?
Definitely! You can shape the kefta and prep the salad ingredients a day ahead—just keep them separate in the fridge, then cook and toss fresh right before serving. Hummus can also be portioned ahead of time. This makes Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad a fantastic make-ahead party option.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that feels both adventurous and comforting, you’ll fall in love with Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad. It’s a dish that shines at gatherings big or small—quick to prepare, bursting with warmth, and designed for sharing. I can’t wait for you to bring this delicious tradition to your own table and savor every zesty, satisfying bite!
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Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Beef Kefta recipe with a side of Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines flavorful spiced beef kefta with a refreshing salad and creamy hummus.
Ingredients
For the kefta:
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the salad:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- pinch of salt and pepper
For serving:
- 1 cup hummus
- warm pita bread (optional)
- extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the kefta: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Shape into patties and cook in olive oil until browned.
- Make the salad: Combine tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Serve: Spread hummus on a plate, arrange kefta, and spoon the salad beside it. Garnish with parsley and serve with pita.
Notes
- Kefta can also be grilled for a smokier flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, use baba ghanoush instead of hummus.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop or Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe with hummus and salad
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
