If you’re craving a big, fresh burst of flavor that strikes the perfect balance between hearty and refreshing, allow me to introduce you to Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad. This dish is a festival of vibrant textures and aromas—spiced, juicy kefta nestled beside silky hummus and a zesty, crunchy salad. It’s crowd-pleasing comfort food meets Mediterranean sunshine, and it comes together faster than you’d think. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or looking to impress your friends, this is the kind of plate everyone remembers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best thing about this dish is how a handful of everyday ingredients come together magically. Every element—from the fragrant kefta to the crisp, herby salad—plays its own irreplaceable role in building a meal that tastes like much more than the sum of its parts.
- Ground beef (85/15): The perfect fat ratio for juicy, tender kefta that crisps beautifully on the edges.
- Onion (finely chopped): Adds savory sweetness and moisture to the kefta mix.
- Garlic (minced): Lends depth and a classic Mediterranean punch, essential for authentic flavor.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens the kefta and salad with a pop of color and garden-fresh taste.
- Ground cumin: Warm, earthy spice that gives the kefta its signature Middle Eastern note.
- Ground coriander: Subtly citrusy, this enhances both the meat and the vegetables in the salad.
- Paprika: A sweet-smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the richness of the beef.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a touch brings unforgettable warmth and complexity.
- Salt and black pepper: The irreplaceable duo for seasoning everything to perfection.
- Olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying): Helps achieve that irresistible golden crust on the kefta and ties together the salad’s flavors.
- Cucumber (diced): Cool and crisp, brings freshness to the salad.
- Tomato (diced): Adds juicy sweetness and gorgeous color to the plate.
- Red onion (finely chopped): A little sharpness that wakes up the whole salad.
- Lemon juice: Bright and tangy, it makes everything vibrant, especially the vegetables.
- Hummus: Creamy and luscious, this is the foundation that ties the plate together.
- Pita bread or flatbread (optional): Perfect for scooping and swiping every last bit.
- Extra parsley or sumac for garnish: For a final fresh finish and a sprinkle of color and citrusy pop.
How to Make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Kefta
Start by adding your ground beef, onion, garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to a large mixing bowl. Dive in with clean hands or a sturdy spatula and combine until everything is evenly incorporated (but don’t overwork it!). Shape the mixture into small oval patties or logs; you should have about 8–10 kefta, sized just right for grabbing with flatbread.
Step 2: Cook the Kefta
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, or fire up your grill if you’re in a barbecue mood. Once hot, add the kefta and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The spices will sizzle and perfume your kitchen, and the crust will develop while the inside stays juicy—just right for Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad.
Step 3: Toss Together the Tomato Cucumber Salad
While the kefta cooks, take a few minutes to whip up the salad. Combine diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, chopped parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss until everything is well coated. The veggies will soak up the lemony dressing and stay crunchy and vibrant—an ideal counterpoint to the rich kefta and creamy hummus.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Time for the fun part! Spread a generous blanket of hummus on each plate (or a large platter if you’re serving family-style). Arrange the kefta alongside or over the hummus, followed by a scoop of the refreshing salad. Shower the whole plate with extra parsley or a sprinkle of sumac to wake up the flavors. If you like, serve with warm pita or flatbread for scooping—the ultimate touch for Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad.
How to Serve Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad
Garnishes
Nothing elevates this dish like a handful of fresh parsley and a dusting of sumac. The parsley brings vibrant color and a little herbal pop, while sumac adds tartness and visual flair. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil over the hummus makes everything glisten invitingly. Trust me—these little touches make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.
Side Dishes
You honestly don’t need much else with this flavorful trio, but a few extras can make the meal even more festive. Lightly charred pita or warm flatbread is a must for scooping up every bit of hummus and salad. For a fuller spread, consider a side of marinated olives, a pile of roasted vegetables, or a simple lentil soup to round out the meal with a cozy, Mediterranean vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad on a large platter for sharing—it creates a beautiful centerpiece. For a fun appetizer or party format, serve in lettuce cups or mini pita pockets for easy, hand-held bites. You can also layer everything in a bowl for a satisfying, deconstructed salad that works beautifully for meal prep or packed lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they’re unlikely to last!), store the beef kefta, salad, and hummus in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The kefta will keep for up to 3 days, while the salad is best enjoyed within 2 days so it stays crisp and bright. Hummus keeps well for up to a week—if you can resist digging in.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze cooked kefta. Let them cool, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. While hummus and salad are best made fresh, you can freeze hummus separately if you like. Just remember not to freeze the salad, as the veggies will lose their crunch once thawed.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the kefta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water and covering with a lid to keep them moist. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts. Always rewarm the pita or flatbread too—it makes a huge difference! Serve with fresh salad and hummus for the tastiest leftovers of Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad.
FAQs
Can I use ground lamb instead of beef?
Absolutely! Lamb is a traditional choice for kefta and will give a deeper, more robust flavor. You can also use a mix of beef and lamb for the best of both worlds. Just keep the total amount to about one pound for the recipe.
What can I use instead of hummus for serving?
If you’re not a hummus fan or want to try something new, try serving your kefta with labneh (strained yogurt), baba ganoush, or tzatziki. Each brings its own creamy coolness to balance the warm spices of the kefta.
Is Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you skip the pita or use a gluten-free flatbread. The kefta, salad, and hummus themselves are entirely gluten-free, making this dish a smart choice for sharing with a crowd.
Can I prepare any parts ahead of time?
You bet! You can mix and shape the kefta a day in advance, then keep refrigerated until ready to cook. The salad is also great made ahead and allowed to marinate—just drain off any excess juice before serving for the best texture.
How can I make this spicier or milder?
For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the kefta mixture or salad. For a milder version, simply reduce or omit the black pepper and paprika—feel free to adjust the spicing to suit everyone’s taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a dish that’s colorful, comforting, and endlessly satisfying, you simply must try Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad. It’s a breeze to whip up yet feels like a special treat, no matter the occasion. Give it a go and watch your dinner table come alive with the flavors of the Mediterranean!
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Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish featuring flavorful ground beef kefta served with creamy hummus and a refreshing salad of tomatoes and cucumbers.
Ingredients
For the Kefta:
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying)
For the Salad:
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup diced tomato
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- pinch of salt and pepper
For Serving:
- 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
- pita bread or flatbread (optional)
- extra chopped parsley or sumac for garnish
Instructions
- For the Kefta: In a large bowl, combine all kefta ingredients except the olive oil. Shape the mixture into small logs or oval patties. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side.
- For the Salad: Combine cucumber, tomato, red onion, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss well.
- To Serve: Spread hummus on a plate, arrange kefta and salad. Garnish and serve with warm pita.
Notes
- Ground lamb or a beef-lamb mix can be used for a more traditional flavor.
- Make the salad ahead of time to let the flavors meld.
- Perfect for meal prep or casual entertaining.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 kefta with hummus and salad
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
