Minced & Moist (IDDSI Level 5)
Soft foods that are finely chopped and held together with moisture so they don’t crumble or fall apart.
This vibrant beet salad is infused with warm, earthy flavors from cumin and coriander oil, paired with creamy goat cheese, and served with garlic bread crostini. This recipe is designed to be IDDSI Level 5 minced and moist texture. With the deep flavors of roasted beets, tangy goat cheese, and aromatic cumin and coriander oil, this dish is both delicious and texture-friendly.
Check out the modifications below the recipe for customizing IDDSI-level, style of eating, or energy levels!
Cubed Beet Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using raw beets, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, cube, and roast for 30–40 minutes until soft. Let cool. Blend half of the roasted beets with a small amount of water or oil until smooth.
- In a saucepan, gently heat olive oil with cumin and coriander for 5 minutes on low. Remove from heat and let infuse for several minutes. Remove and discard the herbs. Lightly toast bread slices. Rub with cut garlic and brush with the infused oil.
- Cut into small cubes and place in a shallow dish. Pour water or broth over bread and let soak 2-3 minutes then flip and repeat until entirely saturated yet holding shape. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Mince and toss the beets with cumin & coriander oil, salt, and optional balsamic vinegar. Crumble goat cheese finely. Plate atop the pregelled crostini (or pregelled breadcrumbs) and garnish with fresh herbs.
SLP Notes
Testing Method: Food should pass the fork pressure test (mashes easily with light pressure) and the spoon tilt test (holds together but slides off easily when tilted). Particle Size: Pieces must be ≤ 4 mm for adults (2 mm for children). All food should appear cohesive, not crumbly or sticky. Moisture Level: Add small amounts of sauce, broth, or dressing until the mix clings together without pooling liquid. Serving Tip: Keep the dish visually appealing by shaping or layering components while maintaining moisture. Retest texture if reheated or refrigerated.How do I…
Adjust the macros?
Protein: Add extra goat cheese, add lentils, or swap for a higher protein cheese like whipped feta.
Fat: Add avocado puree, a spoonful of tahini, or include ground or nut butters.
Carbs: Skip crostini and replace with cauliflower mash, omit balsamic or choose reduced-sugar variety
Make it fit my eating style?
Gluten-Free: Use gluten free bread for crostini
Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use a nut or coconut cream cheese in place of goat cheese.
Make it fit my spoons?
Buy precooked beets to reduce the cooking time.
Pregelling for Safety
Pregelled bread keeps crostini safe and compliant with IDDSI guidelines. You can soak it in flavored broth for an extra boost of taste.
Infused Oils
For those looking to customize flavors, check out our guide on making herb-infused oils to create different flavors. Cumin and coriander oil bring a warm, earthy note that complements both beets and goat cheese.
Balance Flavors
The earthiness of the beets, creaminess of goat cheese, and tang of balsamic or lemon juice create a well-rounded flavor profile. Adjust seasonings based on your preference to keep each bite balanced and satisfying.
This minced and moist beet salad is a flexible, IDDSI-compliant way to bring together rich flavors and textures while ensuring safety and enjoyment. Whether it’s for a light meal or a side dish, this beet salad with infused oil brings a fresh twist to the table that everyone can enjoy.
Want more Same Menu?
Sushi is still on the menu with the minced and moist sushi bowl with edamame hummus; learn more about the kitchen tools that can help most with achieving safe and consistent textures.
Every recipe here is designed for texture sensitive eaters: from dysphagia to dental issues to picky eaters. Get recipe roundups and practical tips by joining the mailing list.
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