Creamy Greek Tzatziki: A Refreshing Dip Perfect for Any Occasion
Description:
This delightful Tzatziki recipe, inspired by my culinary adventures in Greece, captures the essence of traditional Greek yogurt, resulting in a rich and creamy dip that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy brunch. With its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, this easy-to-make recipe will transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.
Recipe Category: Greek
Keywords: European, Summer, Brunch, < 15 Mins, Beginner Cook, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Plain fat-free yogurt | 32 ounces |
| Cucumbers | 1 1/2 cups |
| Salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh mint (finely chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh coarse ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Minced garlic cloves | 2 cloves |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 54.2 |
| Total Fat | 1.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 1.5 mg |
| Sodium | 199.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugars | 5.9 g |
| Protein | 4.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Yogurt: Begin by lining a colander with coffee filters, setting it snugly in a large bowl to catch any excess liquid. This step is essential for achieving that thick, luxurious yogurt texture characteristic of authentic Tzatziki.
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Drain the Yogurt: Spoon the plain fat-free yogurt into the lined colander. To ensure it becomes extra thick, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing it to drain for a minimum of 8 to 12 hours.
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Collect the Yogurt: After the resting period, remove the colander from the bowl, discarding the liquid that has collected below. Transfer the now thickened yogurt into a large mixing bowl, ready to become the base of your Tzatziki.
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Mix and Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and place it back in the refrigerator to keep it chilled while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
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Prepare the Cucumber: Grate the cucumbers using a box grater and then transfer them to a sieve. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of the salt over the grated cucumbers, mixing well to ensure even distribution. Let the cucumbers sit for about 20 minutes. This process helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring a less watery dip.
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Drain the Cucumber: After the resting time, take the cucumbers and squeeze them tightly with your hands or blot them with a paper towel until they are as dry as possible. This step is crucial for preventing your Tzatziki from becoming too watery.
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Combine Ingredients: In the bowl with your thick yogurt, mix in the drained cucumbers, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt, the chopped fresh mint, the freshly ground black pepper, the minced garlic, and the extra virgin olive oil. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let your Tzatziki sit in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to blend harmoniously, resulting in a refreshing dip that’s perfect for pita bread, grilled meats, or fresh veggies.
This Tzatziki is not only a refreshing addition to any meal, but it also offers a burst of flavor that is light and satisfying. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe, and let it transport you to the vibrant streets of Greece with every delicious bite!
