This vibrantly spiced Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is the kind of meal that instantly transports you to a sun-drenched Mediterranean table. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned kefta nestled on a cloud of creamy hummus, all balanced by a crisp, refreshing salad bursting with ripe tomatoes and cool slices of cucumber. The interplay of colors and flavors here is simply irresistible, making this dish a real celebration—whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering. If you’re looking for a show-stopping recipe that’s as easy as it is unforgettable, Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad, each bringing its own personality to the plate. Fresh produce, warm spices, and pantry staples blend beautifully for a meal that’s as easy to shop for as it is to love.
- Ground beef (80/20): This blend gives the kefta rich flavor and the perfect juicy texture—don’t go too lean, or the kefta might dry out.
- Yellow onion, finely minced: Adds sweetness and keeps the kefta moist while adding depth to every bite.
- Garlic cloves, minced: For a savory backbone and just the right punch of aromatic flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Lifts the entire dish with a splash of herby freshness and a pop of green.
- Ground cumin: This warm, earthy spice brings an unmistakeable Middle Eastern note to the kefta.
- Ground coriander: Adds subtle citrusy undertones that partner beautifully with the beef.
- Paprika: Gives a gentle smokiness and a beautiful hue to the kefta.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for unlocking all those bold flavors in both meat and salad.
- Hummus (store-bought or homemade): Creamy, nutty, and the perfect bed for your kefta—plus a real time-saver if you grab it premade.
- Ripe tomatoes: Choose the juiciest, most vibrant tomatoes you can find for the salad base.
- Cucumber: Adds cool crunch and contrasts the spices of the kefta beautifully.
- Red onion, thinly sliced: For a slight bite and extra color in the salad.
- Fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness to the salad and ties all the flavors together.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a glossy finish to the salad.
- Fresh mint, chopped (optional): For a fragrant, cooling note that’s pure Mediterranean magic.
How to Make Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Kefta Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, minced onion, garlic, parsley, and all the spices. Mixing by hand is best—it gives you a better sense of when everything’s just right and avoids overworking the meat. You want a cohesive but tender texture, so mix until just combined. If you’re feeling fancy, let the mixture sit for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Shape the Kefta
Divide the beef mixture into equal portions, and shape each into football-like ovals or long logs, about 1 inch thick. Press gently—too tight and they’ll be dense, too loose and they’re fragile. If you have skewers, thread the kefta on, which makes grilling or broiling even easier and adds to the fun presentation.
Step 3: Cook the Kefta
Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high. Brush lightly with oil, then cook the kefta for about 3–4 minutes per side, turning once, until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through but still juicy. Don’t crowd the pan—give them room to get that gorgeous color.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Cucumber Salad
While the kefta are cooking, toss together the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion in a bowl. Sprinkle with salt, squeeze over the fresh lemon juice, drizzle in the olive oil, and toss to coat. Add a generous scattering of fresh mint if you have it for an instant burst of freshness.
Step 5: Plate the Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad
Spread a generous swoosh of hummus on each plate, then lay the hot kefta right on top. Spoon the crisp, lemony salad on the side (or right over the hummus, if you’re feeling bold). Drizzle everything with a little more olive oil for sparkle and richness, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad
Garnishes
A final flourish can turn Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad from delicious to downright dazzling. Scatter over extra chopped parsley or mint for freshness, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for drama, or top with toasted pine nuts for nutty crunch. Even a handful of pomegranate seeds will make your plate pop with color and sweet-tart flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can easily stretch the meal for a crowd. Warm pita bread or fluffy rice soaks up the extra hummus and salad juices perfectly. A simple bowl of olives, pickled turnips, or a dollop of garlicky yogurt will make the whole meal feel like a Middle Eastern feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, try making mini beef kefta and serving them on a communal platter with dollops of hummus and heaps of tomato cucumber salad alongside. Or tuck the kefta, salad, and hummus inside pita pockets for a hand-held meal. Even build-your-own platters let friends and family pile their plates just how they like—no two servings will look the same!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the kefta, hummus, and salad separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The kefta will keep for up to three days, while the freshly made salad is best eaten within 24 hours so it stays crisp. Try to keep moisture away from the hummus and salad to preserve their textures.
Freezing
The beef kefta freeze beautifully—simply cool them completely, then wrap tightly in plastic or foil and store in a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best quality, freeze only the kefta; the hummus and tomato cucumber salad are better fresh.
Reheating
To reheat beef kefta, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil, or bake in a low oven until heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but gentle reheating keeps them juicy. Serve over cold or room temperature hummus and top with a freshly tossed tomato cucumber salad for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground lamb or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Lamb is traditional and brings a distinct richness, while ground turkey offers a leaner option. Just be mindful of the fat content to ensure your kefta stay juicy—adding a little extra olive oil can help if using very lean meat.
Do I have to use skewers for the kefta?
Not at all! Skewers are fun for grilling and presentation, but you can shape the kefta like small patties or logs and cook them directly on a grill or skillet with equally delicious results.
Can I make the hummus from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade hummus brings an unbeatable creaminess and freshness to Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad. Use a blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil—whip until ultra-smooth for the best results.
What kind of tomatoes work best for the salad?
Choose firm, ripe tomatoes that are at their flavorful best—cherry, grape, or vine-ripened all work beautifully. The key is juicy flesh and sweet flavor to balance the savory kefta.
How far in advance can I prep the salad?
You can chop the veggies and make the dressing up to a day ahead, but toss everything together just before serving to keep the cucumber and tomato at their crispest. This keeps the salad beautifully fresh alongside your kefta and hummus.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a bit of sunny, Mediterranean-style joy to your dinner table, Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is the way to go. It’s colorful, deeply flavorful, and comes together without fuss—perfect for any night you’re craving something extra special. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a go-to in your kitchen, too!
Print
Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Description
This recipe for Beef Kefta with Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad is a Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines flavorful spiced ground beef skewers with creamy hummus and a refreshing salad. Perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
Beef Kefta:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Hummus:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Tomato Cucumber Salad:
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Kefta: In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well combined. Shape the mixture into small kebabs around skewers.
- Cook the Beef Kefta: Grill the kebabs over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
- Make the Hummus: In a food processor, blend the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prepare the Tomato Cucumber Salad: In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, mint, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss to mix well.
- Serve: Serve the Beef Kefta with the Hummus and Tomato Cucumber Salad. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can also serve the Beef Kefta with pita bread or rice.
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite veggies or herbs.
- Adjust the spice level of the Beef Kefta to your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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