If you are craving a dish that hits every note—rich, vibrant, fresh, and utterly satisfying—then this Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is exactly what you need on your table tonight. This recipe blends perfectly seasoned, juicy beef kefta with creamy, tangy hummus and a crisp salad bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s one of those dishes that not only delights your taste buds but also brings a warm and festive vibe to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for friends or a cozy family dinner, this well-balanced, colorful plate offers incredible flavors, textures, and a touch of culinary magic that makes dinner feel special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this sensational Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the spices that build the kefta’s complex aroma to the fresh vegetables that add brightness and crunch. Simple, accessible, and packed with flavor, these ingredients come together to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
- Ground beef (80% lean): The star protein providing juicy richness and the perfect texture to the kefta.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to keep the kefta tender.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Gives a fragrant depth to both the kefta and the hummus.
- Ground cumin: Essential earthy spice that defines traditional kefta flavor.
- Ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet edge to the spice blend.
- Paprika: Brings mild warmth and vibrant color.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a pinch for unexpected warmth and complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a little kick.
- Salt and pepper: Fundamental seasonings to enhance all flavors.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Delivers bright herbal freshness in the kefta and salad.
- Fresh mint (chopped): Adds a cool, refreshing layer to the kefta’s flavor profile.
- Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed): The creamy base of our homemade hummus.
- Tahini: Made from ground sesame seeds, it gives hummus its signature creaminess and nutty taste.
- Olive oil: Used in the hummus and salad for richness and a fruity finish.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens hummus with zesty acidity.
- Cherry tomatoes (halved): Provide a burst of juicy sweetness and color in the salad.
- Cucumber (diced): Adds crisp texture and refreshing coolness.
- Red onion (finely chopped): Sharpness to balance the salad flavors.
- Vinegar of choice: Offers tangy zip to the tomato cucumber salad, balancing the creamy hummus and spiced meat.
How to Make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Beef Kefta
Start by combining your ground beef with finely chopped onion, garlic, and the full array of spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon—and add cayenne if you want a little heat. Fresh parsley and mint are folded in to add an irresistible herbaceous note. Mix everything thoroughly so that these flavors marry perfectly. Then shape this fragrant mixture into elongated patties or meatballs about 2 to 3 inches long. This shape ensures even cooking and a delightful texture after grilling or pan-searing.
Step 2: Cooking the Beef Kefta
Heat up your grill or skillet to medium-high heat, allowing it to become nice and hot. Cook each piece of kefta for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop a gorgeous browned crust while maintaining juiciness inside. The aroma at this point is irresistible, filling your kitchen with warm, inviting spices. Once cooked through, set the kefta aside to rest slightly—this helps keep them tender.
Step 3: Making the Hummus
While the kefta is cooking, blend the drained chickpeas with tahini, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. This mixture should be whipped until silky smooth. If it feels too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time to reach the perfect creamy consistency. Adjust salt or lemon juice to your liking—this hummus should be zesty, rich, and luscious to complement the beef perfectly.
Step 4: Assembling the Tomato Cucumber Salad
In a fresh bowl, toss together halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Drizzle olive oil and your chosen vinegar over the top, then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything gently but thoroughly. This salad adds a juicy crunch and light acidity that balances the richness of the kefta and the creaminess of the hummus beautifully.
Step 5: Bringing It All Together
Now for the grand assembly: lay out your cooked beef kefta on a serving platter, add a generous scoop of the silky hummus beside it, and spoon over the vibrant tomato cucumber salad. This plate is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and textures that come together perfectly in each bite.
How to Serve Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or mint on top of the finished dish enhances the vibrant colors and fresh flavors. You can also add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dusting of smoked paprika on the hummus for visual appeal. A few lemon wedges on the side encourage guests to add a bright citrusy punch if desired, adding another layer of freshness.
Side Dishes
This dish is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or flatbreads, allowing you to scoop, wrap, or dip. For a heartier experience, serve alongside basmati rice or a simple couscous salad. Roasted vegetables or grilled eggplants also complement these Mediterranean flavors perfectly for a colorful and well-rounded plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the kefta on wooden skewers for a rustic, festive vibe that’s perfect for gatherings. Alternatively, present individual plates with the hummus spread as a base, kefta arranged attractively on top, and the salad artfully scattered around the edges. Using shallow bowls or stoneware platters enhances the earthy, authentic feel. Setting the table with fresh herbs, small bowls of olives, or pickled vegetables can elevate the experience further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe, store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This preserves the freshness and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. The kefta will keep for up to 3 days, while the hummus stays creamy and delicious for about 4 to 5 days.
Freezing
The cooked kefta freezes beautifully and can be stored in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool them completely before freezing to maintain their texture and flavor. Hummus can also be frozen, but note that its texture might change slightly; whisk well after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat the kefta, gently warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may dry them out. Serve fresh hummus cold or at room temperature and toss the tomato cucumber salad fresh just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use lamb instead of beef for the kefta?
Absolutely! Ground lamb works wonderfully in this recipe, delivering a richer and slightly gamey flavor that complements the spices beautifully. Just follow the same preparation and cooking steps.
Is the cayenne pepper necessary?
Not at all. The cayenne is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder dish. The other spices provide a warm, aromatic flavor without overwhelming heat.
How can I make the hummus smoother if my food processor isn’t powerful?
Add water or a bit more olive oil gradually while blending to help loosen the mixture. You can also peel the chickpeas before blending, though this is extra work, it results in exceptionally smooth hummus.
Can I prepare this dish for a party?
Definitely! This dish is fantastic for entertaining because you can prepare most parts ahead of time and assemble everything quickly before serving. It’s colorful, flavorful, and sure to impress guests.
What vinegar is best for the tomato cucumber salad?
A red wine vinegar or a light apple cider vinegar works beautifully here, adding just enough acidity without overpowering the fresh veggies. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite balance.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is like inviting a little Mediterranean sunshine into your kitchen. It’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and colors that’s simple to make but endlessly rewarding. Once you’ve experienced this perfect harmony of spiced beef, creamy hummus, and crisp salad, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. Trust me, this one is a keeper!
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Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
This Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines spiced ground beef patties with creamy homemade hummus and a refreshing, tangy salad. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal ready in 30 minutes, it offers a wonderful balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Beef Kefta
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Hummus
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2–4 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Tomato Cucumber Salad
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar (red wine or apple cider vinegar recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preparing the Beef Kefta: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, parsley, and mint. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shaping the Kefta: Shape the beef mixture into 2-3 inch elongated meatballs or patties, ensuring they hold together well for cooking.
- Cooking the Kefta: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the kefta for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned on the outside and cooked through internally. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Making the Hummus: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Adjusting Hummus Consistency: Add water one tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition, until the hummus reaches a creamy and smooth consistency. Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as preferred.
- Assembling the Tomato Cucumber Salad: In a bowl, mix halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently.
- Final Assembly: Arrange the cooked beef kefta, a generous scoop of hummus, and the tomato cucumber salad on a serving platter or individual plates. Serve immediately as a fresh and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground lamb for beef for a richer flavor.
- To make the kefta spicier, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili flakes.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best hummus flavor rather than bottled.
- The salad can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
- If you don’t have a grill or skillet, the kefta can also be broiled in the oven at high heat for about 4 minutes per side.
