Roasted Hasselback Beets with Dill

Name: Roasted Hasselback Beets with Dill
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 1 min
Ingredients: 4 medium beets (red or golden), scrubbed and trimmed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; to taste salt; to taste freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 small garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon honey (optional); to taste salt and pepper

Posted on July 19, 2025

Easy Recipes

Roasted Hasselback Beets with Dill are the epitome of a fresh, flavorful, and elegant side dish that turns your humble beets into a show-stopping creation. The technique of slicing them Hasselback-style results in perfectly tender roasted slices, each one absorbing the flavors of olive oil, salt, pepper, and that vibrant dill dressing. This dish is not only visually striking but also packs a punch in terms of flavor, making it an excellent addition to any dinner, potluck, or holiday spread.

Whether you’re a beet lover or just looking to introduce more veggies into your meals, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s simple to prepare, yet sophisticated in both taste and appearance, making it the perfect choice when you want something a little fancier than the usual roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Visually stunning: Hasselback-style beets are not only delicious, but they also create an impressive presentation, making them a great conversation starter at any dinner table.
Perfect balance of flavors: The sweetness of the roasted beets pairs beautifully with the tangy, zesty dill dressing, offering the perfect contrast of earthy and fresh.
Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian: This dish is suitable for nearly any dietary restriction, making it a versatile side dish for all kinds of eaters.
Can be made ahead: Whether you’re prepping for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, these beets can be prepped ahead of time and served warm or cold.
Low-effort, high-reward: Despite looking fancy, this recipe requires minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

What makes these roasted Hasselback beets stand out is the combination of flavor, presentation, and versatility. While traditional roasted beets are wonderful, the Hasselback method takes things to the next level by allowing the seasoning to penetrate each slice, resulting in a much deeper flavor profile. The addition of a simple dill dressing gives the dish an extra punch of freshness that’s hard to beat.

Furthermore, this recipe works wonderfully as a side dish for just about anything – from grilled meats like chicken or steak to grain-based dishes like quinoa and couscous. The beauty of the Hasselback style is that it cooks the beets evenly, ensuring each bite is a tender, flavorful experience.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a dinner party, or preparing your weekly meals, these beets offer a healthy and flavorful side that can be prepped ahead, saving you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

For the Beets:

Small to medium beets (red or golden)
Olive oil or vegetable oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Dill Dressing:

White wine vinegar
Olive oil or canola oil
Honey or maple syrup
Fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper

Optional:

Add Greek yogurt for a creamy variation

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature while you prepare the beets.

Step 2: Prepare the Beets
Start by peeling the beets. You can use a vegetable peeler, or if you’re roasting red beets, you can choose to leave the skin on for a more rustic feel. Once peeled, place each beet between two chopsticks or wooden spoons to prevent slicing all the way through. Slice thinly across the beet, ensuring each slice stays connected at the base. This is the secret to the Hasselback style that allows for the seasoning to penetrate and results in beautifully roasted slices.

Step 3: Roast the Beets
Once your beets are sliced, arrange them on a baking sheet. Drizzle the beets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Cover the baking sheet with foil and place it in the oven. Roast for about 1 hour, or until the beets are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork. The foil helps to steam the beets, making them tender on the inside, while the open edges of the slices crisp up and become caramelized.

Step 4: Make the Dill Dressing
While the beets are roasting, it’s time to prepare the dill dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together white wine vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), chopped dill, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is well emulsified. The sweet and tangy dressing is the perfect complement to the earthy roasted beets. If you prefer a creamier dressing, stir in some Greek yogurt at this stage. You can also tweak the sweetness and acidity to your preference by adjusting the honey and vinegar.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the beets are done roasting, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the dill dressing over the roasted beets, ensuring that the dressing seeps into each thin slice. For an added burst of flavor, garnish with a little extra chopped dill or some crumbled feta cheese.

Serve warm for a comforting side dish or allow it to cool and serve at room temperature for a refreshing twist.

Tips for Best Results

Slice Evenly: When slicing the beets, aim for evenly spaced slices. If the slices are too thick, they won’t cook evenly, and the texture may vary.
Use Chopsticks to Guide Your Slicing: The chopstick trick ensures that you won’t accidentally slice all the way through the beet, maintaining the Hasselback style.
Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the beets with foil helps them cook through without drying out the edges. You can uncover them for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow the edges to crisp up.
Experiment with Different Oils: While olive oil is the most commonly used oil, feel free to experiment with other oils like avocado oil or canola oil for different flavors.
Use Fresh Dill: For the best flavor, always use fresh dill. Dried dill won’t have the same vibrancy, and the flavor may be a bit more muted.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Sweetener Swap: If you prefer a sugar-free option, substitute the honey or maple syrup with a zero-calorie sweetener, such as stevia or monk fruit. This is a great way to enjoy this dish while keeping it in line with your dietary goals.
Greek Yogurt for a Creamier Dressing: If you’re looking for a creamy twist, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for part of the olive oil in the dressing. It adds richness and a tangy flavor.
Cheese Alternatives: If you want a non-dairy version, try using crumbled tofu or nutritional yeast as a cheese alternative.
Try Different Beets: While red beets are the most common, you can also experiment with golden beets for a slightly sweeter flavor or striped Chioggia beets for a colorful variation. Mix and match the colors for a vibrant and visually stunning dish.

Serving Suggestions

These roasted Hasselback beets with dill make a fantastic side dish to a wide variety of main courses. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled lamb, or even a vegetarian grain bowl. The natural sweetness of the beets and the tangy, fresh dressing complement a range of flavors.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

Grilled Meat: Try serving these beets with a grilled steak or roasted chicken. The earthiness of the beets pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
Couscous or Quinoa: For a lighter meal, serve these beets over a bed of couscous or quinoa. The grains will absorb the delicious dressing, making each bite even more satisfying.
Crispy Tofu: For a plant-based option, crispy tofu makes an excellent accompaniment. The crunchiness of the tofu pairs beautifully with the tender roasted beets.
Fresh Herb Salad: A simple salad of arugula or spinach with a light vinaigrette dressing makes the perfect refreshing contrast to the richness of the beets.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Roasted Hasselback Beets store well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat them gently in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, or you can enjoy them cold for a refreshing salad. Just make sure to drizzle with the dill dressing right before serving.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the beets a day ahead. Simply roast them, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, add the dressing and garnish before serving.
Freezing: Although roasting beets can be frozen, it’s not recommended to freeze them after they have been roasted in Hasselback style. The texture may change, and the beautiful slices might lose their structure. However, if you need to prepare them in advance, store the roasted beets in the fridge for a couple of days, and they will still taste delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: When roasting, make sure the beets are spaced out on the baking sheet. If they’re too crowded, they won’t roast evenly and could become mushy.
Not Using Fresh Dill: Dried dill just doesn’t provide the same vibrant flavor as fresh dill. If you don’t have fresh dill, consider substituting with other fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Not Checking for Doneness: Beets can sometimes take a little longer to cook depending on their size and the thickness of the slices. Make sure to check them by poking them with a fork. If the fork easily slides through, they’re done.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the best way to slice the beets Hasselback-style?
Use chopsticks or wooden spoons placed on either side of the beet to stop yourself from cutting all the way through. This method will allow for thin, even slices.
Can I use pre-cooked beets?
While you can use pre-cooked beets, they won’t give you the same caramelization or texture as freshly roasted beets. The Hasselback method works best with raw beets.
Can I make this recipe without the dill dressing?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of dill, you can use a simple balsamic glaze or a lemon vinaigrette instead. You could also serve the beets with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon juice for a lighter, more straightforward flavor.
How long can I store leftovers?
Roasted beets will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’re great for meal prepping and can be used in salads or bowls.
Can I grill Hasselback beets instead of roasting them?
Yes, you can grill Hasselback beets for a smoky, charred flavor. Wrap them in foil to keep the slices intact while grilling, or use a grill pan to achieve a crispy finish.
Are Hasselback beets easy to make?
Absolutely! The method might look fancy, but it’s actually very simple. Just slice, season, and roast. The result is an impressive, delicious dish with minimal effort.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Chopsticks or Wooden Spoons (for slicing the beets Hasselback-style)
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
Whisk (for the dill dressing)
Small Bowl (for the dressing)

Conclusion

Roasted Hasselback Beets with Dill are a beautifully elegant side dish that packs a punch in both flavor and presentation. With tender roasted beets, a tangy dill dressing, and simple ingredients, it’s easy to see why this dish has become a favorite in many kitchens. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a dinner party or making it for a casual meal, these roasted beets will impress everyone. Try them out today and add a touch of elegance to your next meal!

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