Description
A vibrant, savory cheesecake that combines the earthy sweetness of beetroot, the tangy saltiness of feta cheese, and the crunchy nuttiness of pistachios. This Beetroot Feta Cheesecake with Dill & Pistachio Dust is the perfect dish for special occasions, brunches, or as an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cheesecake:
- 7 oz (200g) cooked beetroot, blended smooth (boiled or roasted)
- 7 oz (200g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 3.5 oz (100g) Greek yogurt or cream cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of ½ lemon, finely grated
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- A pinch of black pepper
- Salt, if needed
For the Pistachio Dust:
- ¼ cup roasted pistachios, ground into fine crumbs
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra fresh dill, chopped
- Lemon zest
- A drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Set aside while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Beetroot
- If using raw beetroot, boil or roast it until fork-tender.
- Allow it to cool, then peel and blend it into a smooth purée using a food processor or blender.
Step 3: Blend the Mixture
- In a blender or mixing bowl, combine:
- Beetroot purée
- Feta cheese (crumbled)
- Greek yogurt (or cream cheese)
- Eggs
- Lemon juice & zest
- Dill
- Black pepper & salt (if needed)
- Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with a vibrant pink hue.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan.
- Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until:
- The edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- The top has a light golden hue without overbrowning.
Step 5: Cool Gradually
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open.
- This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks.
Step 6: Chill the Cheesecake
- Once at room temperature, cover the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours (or overnight for the best texture).
- Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cheesecake to firm up properly.
Step 7: Prepare the Pistachio Dust
- Using a mortar and pestle or a food processor, grind roasted pistachios into a fine crumb-like texture.
Step 8: Garnish & Serve
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan.
- Sprinkle generously with pistachio dust.
- Garnish with:
- Extra fresh dill
- Lemon zest
- A light drizzle of olive oil
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- Texture Tip: The cheesecake should have a slightly jiggly center when you remove it from the oven. It will firm up as it cools.
- Beetroot Prep Tip: If you want a more intense beet flavor, roast the beets instead of boiling them. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness.
- Salt Check: Feta is naturally salty, so taste the batter before adding extra salt.
- Serving Idea: This cheesecake pairs beautifully with crisp crackers, toasted bread, or a light salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 320mg
- Protein: 8g
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