If you are looking to impress friends or just treat yourself to a vibrant, flavorful meal, the Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish brings together juicy, spiced ground beef shapely grilled to perfection, creamy, velvety hummus, and a fresh, zesty tomato cucumber salad that adds brightness and crunch. Every bite is a celebration of Middle Eastern flavors that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is delightfully simple yet packed with taste and texture that will quickly make it a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the straightforward list fool you; each ingredient in the Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe plays an essential role in creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. From fragrant spices that infuse the beef to fresh herbs that brighten every bite, these elements come together to create magic on your plate.
- Ground beef (80% lean): Provides the perfect balance of fat for juicy, tender kefta.
- Small onion (finely chopped): Adds moisture and sweetness to the beef mixture.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Infuse a savory depth in both the kefta and hummus.
- Ground cumin: Brings earthiness and warmth to the kefta seasoning.
- Ground coriander: Offers a subtle citrus note that lifts the meat’s flavor.
- Paprika: Adds mild smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Ground cinnamon: A touch of sweet spice to enhance the kefta’s complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a gentle heat kick, adjustable to your taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning all components perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Gives fresh, herbal brightness throughout the recipe.
- Fresh mint (chopped): Adds a cooling contrast to the spiced beef.
- Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed): The creamy base for silky-smooth hummus.
- Tahini: Sesame paste that gives hummus its signature nutty flavor.
- Olive oil: Richness for the hummus and salad dressing.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brings vibrant acidity brightening the whole dish.
- Cherry tomatoes (halved): Sweet bursts that complement the salad’s crunch.
- Cucumber (diced): Adds refreshing coolness and texture contrast.
- Red onion (finely chopped): Provides sharpness and bite to balance flavors.
- Vinegar of choice: Adds tang to the salad dressing—red wine or apple cider work great.
How to Make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Beef Kefta
Start by combining ground beef with finely chopped onion and garlic, then add your warm spices—cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne if you like some heat. Season everything well with salt and pepper, then stir in fresh parsley and mint for herbal freshness. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavor. Shape the mixture into elongated 2-3 inch patties or meatballs to keep them juicy during cooking.
Step 2: Cooking the Kefta
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat—you want it hot enough to get a nice sear without drying out the meat. Cook the kefta patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and cooked through. The aroma at this stage will be irresistible, promising lush, spiced bites ahead. Set the kefta aside while you prepare the other components.
Step 3: Making the Hummus
In a food processor, blend rinsed chickpeas with tahini, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt until completely smooth. This is key for silky hummus that melts in your mouth. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, to reach the perfect creamy consistency. Taste and adjust with extra salt or lemon juice to brighten the flavors just how you like it.
Step 4: Assembling the Tomato Cucumber Salad
For a crisp, refreshing salad, toss halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and your choice of vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together well so every bite bursts with freshness and light acidity—this salad will help cut through the richness of the kefta and hummus beautifully.
Step 5: Final Assembly
Arrange the warm beef kefta on a platter alongside generous scoops of creamy hummus and the vibrant tomato cucumber salad. The colors, textures, and layers of flavor make this dish an absolute feast for the eyes and palate. Serve immediately and watch your guests’ faces light up with delight.
How to Serve Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or mint on top adds an inviting pop of green and herbal brightness that enhances the dish’s overall freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the hummus can also give a luxurious sheen and additional depth of flavor.
Side Dishes
While this dish is quite complete on its own, serving it with warm, fluffy pita bread or a side of fluffy couscous can turn it into an even heartier meal. A simple side of roasted vegetables or a light lentil stew pairs beautifully for those wanting to make a full spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this recipe family-style on a large wooden board so everyone can dig in and build their own plates. Alternatively, serve the kefta on skewers for a fun twist or place the hummus in small bowls next to mini portions of the salad and meat for a chic appetizer platter perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover beef kefta, hummus, and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the freshness of the salad and the creamy texture of the hummus, while keeping the kefta juicy.
Freezing
The cooked kefta freezes well wrapped individually or in a container for up to 2 months. Hummus freezes okay but may slightly change in texture once thawed, so stirring it well before serving is recommended. It’s best to avoid freezing the salad as fresh vegetables will become soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat the kefta gently in a warm skillet or oven to avoid drying them out. You can enjoy hummus cold or at room temperature, so no reheating needed there. Refresh the salad with a slap of fresh lemon juice or olive oil before serving again.
FAQs
Can I make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe vegetarian?
While the traditional recipe features beef, you can substitute with plant-based mince or falafel to keep the flavors but make it vegetarian. The hummus and salad remain perfect accompaniments.
What cut of ground beef is best for kefta?
Ground beef with about 80% lean to 20% fat is ideal for kefta since the fat keeps the meat moist and juicy when cooked.
How can I spice up the hummus more?
Try adding roasted red peppers, a pinch of smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne to the hummus to boost its flavor profile.
Is it necessary to grill the kefta?
Not at all—while grilling adds great char and flavor, you can cook kefta equally well in a skillet or bake them in the oven for convenience.
Can the salad be prepped ahead of time?
You can chop the vegetables ahead but it’s best to toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep it crisp and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about the rich, spiced beef kefta paired with smooth, creamy hummus and a fresh, tangy salad that awakens the senses. The Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every mouthful as much as I do—nothing beats sharing food that truly makes you smile.
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Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
This Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is a flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dish combining spiced ground beef patties with creamy homemade hummus and a refreshing tomato cucumber salad. Ready in just 30 minutes, it makes for a perfect hearty yet balanced meal.
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
- 1/4 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 of choice (red wine or apple cider vinegar recommended)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preparing the Beef Kefta: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne pepper if using, salt, black pepper, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices and herbs throughout the meat.
- Shaping the Kefta: Shape the beef mixture into elongated meatballs or patties, approximately 2-3 inches in length and about 1/2 inch thick, to ensure even cooking and good texture.
- Cooking the Kefta: Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the kefta for 4-5 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside to rest briefly.
- Making the Hummus: In a food processor, blend the drained chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add water one tablespoon at a time until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as needed.
- Preparing the Tomato Cucumber Salad: In a bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to mix and coat all ingredients evenly.
- Final Assembly: On a serving platter, arrange the cooked beef kefta alongside a generous scoop of the creamy hummus and a portion of the fresh tomato cucumber salad. Serve immediately to enjoy a combination of warm, creamy, and fresh flavors.
Notes
- For spicier kefta, increase the cayenne pepper or add finely chopped chili.
- Use a grill pan or outdoor grill for authentic smoky flavor on the kefta.
- Hummus can be made in advance and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.
- Vinegar options like red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar complement the salad well; choose based on preference.
- Leftover kefta tastes great wrapped in flatbread with additional salad and hummus.
