Mediterranean Hot Honey Beet Carpaccio with Feta Snowflakes
Mediterranean Hot Honey Beet Carpaccio with Feta Snowflakes is a striking, flavor driven dish that turns simple roasted beets into something truly special. Thinly sliced beets are arranged carpaccio style, then drizzled with warm hot honey and olive oil, creating a balance of sweetness, gentle heat, and earthiness. Crumbled feta is finely shaved over the top like snow, adding salty contrast and creamy texture. Inspired by Mediterranean mezze and modern bistro plates, this dish works beautifully as a starter, light lunch, or elegant side. It’s naturally gluten free, visually stunning, and packed with nutrients, proving that vegetables can be just as exciting as any main course.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Beets
4 medium beets, scrubbed and trimmed
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Hot Honey
¼ cup honey
½ teaspoon chili flakes, adjust to taste
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
For Assembly
½ cup feta cheese, chilled
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Zest of ½ orange or lemon
Fresh thyme or microgreens for garnish
Flaky sea salt, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap each beet individually in foil and place them on a baking tray.
Roast the beets for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a knife slides easily through the center. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Once cool enough to handle, peel the beets by rubbing off the skins with a paper towel. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the beets very thin, aiming for uniform rounds.
Arrange the beet slices in a single overlapping layer on a large serving platter, creating a carpaccio style pattern.
In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey over low heat. Stir in the chili flakes and apple cider vinegar, then remove from heat.
Drizzle the warm hot honey evenly over the beets, followed by a light drizzle of olive oil.
Finely crumble or grate the cold feta over the beets so it resembles soft snowflakes.
Sprinkle citrus zest, flaky sea salt, and fresh thyme or microgreens on top.
Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips
Roasting beets whole preserves moisture and intensifies sweetness.
Chill feta briefly for cleaner crumbling.
Use a mandoline carefully for ultra thin slices.
Warm honey gently to avoid burning or bitterness.
Balance sweetness with vinegar or citrus.
Overlap beet slices for a visually appealing pattern.
Use flaky salt sparingly to finish.
Allow resting time for better flavor integration.
Serve at room temperature for best taste.
Wear gloves when handling beets to avoid staining.
Variations
Use golden beets for a lighter colored presentation.
Add toasted pistachios or walnuts for crunch.
Swap feta for goat cheese or ricotta salata.
Infuse honey with rosemary or thyme.
Add orange segments for citrus brightness.
Use balsamic glaze instead of hot honey.
Add arugula underneath for a salad style dish.
Sprinkle sumac for tangy depth.
Make it vegan with plant based feta.
Add shaved fennel for extra freshness.
Q&A
Can I use pre cooked beets?
Yes, but roasting fresh beets gives better flavor.
Can this be made ahead?
Beets can be roasted and sliced a day ahead.
How spicy is the hot honey?
Mild, but easily adjustable with chili flakes.
What pairs well with this dish?
Grilled fish, chicken, or crusty bread.
Is this served cold or warm?
Best served at room temperature.
Can I skip the honey?
Yes, use a citrus vinaigrette instead.
How thin should the beets be sliced?
Paper thin for best texture.
Is this suitable for entertaining?
Yes, it’s visually impressive and easy to plate.
Can I use flavored feta?
Plain feta works best for balance.
How long will leftovers keep?
Up to two days in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 220
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 22g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Hot Honey Beet Carpaccio with Feta Snowflakes is a dish that turns humble ingredients into something memorable. With its balance of sweet, spicy, salty, and earthy flavors, it feels refined yet approachable. Perfect for special occasions or everyday elegance, this recipe highlights the beauty of vegetables while staying true to Mediterranean simplicity and freshness. Once you serve it, it’s sure to spark conversation and become a favorite on your table.