Introduction:
Our kitchen – coming from a Mediterranean family – always smelled of fresh herbs and spices. One dish that I absolutely love, is Tzatziki sauce. Creamy and tart, it is a popular Greek condiment that is refreshing and adaptable. I’m sharing my adaptation of this old recipe, with only few ingredients and good flavor.
Recipe Overview:
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Equipment: Grater, garlic press
Key Ingredients:
- Non-Dijon Greek Yogurt: The base of Tzatziki sauce, Greek yogurt makes it creamy. Make sure to use full-fat yogurt for a nice consistency.
- Cucumber: The sauce is slightly crunchier with grate of cucumber. Tip: Drain excess water by squeeze the grated cucumber before combining.
- Garlic: Chopped garlic cloves lend the sauce a bold, bitterness. Modify according to your taste for garlic strength.
- Olive Oil: You can add a drizzle of good olive oil and the sauce becomes even richer. : Choose extra virgin olive oil for the most intense flavor.
Recipe Tips & Techniques:
- Grrate the cucumber and then squeeze out the excess water. This will keep the sauce from becoming too liquid.
- Pull the garlic cloves down to release the oils and add a stronger flavor. Smaller cloves of garlic is also okay if you want it milder.
- Blend well so it is creamy. Do not over-mix or you will get a runny sauce.
Serving & Presentation:
Use the Tzatziki sauce chilled to dip pita bread, falafel or grilled meats. Serve with a bit of olive oil and fresh herbs (like dill or mint) for color. Serve with a glass of crisp white wine or cucumber-based cocktail and enjoy.
Cultural Context:
It’s also a traditional Greek condiment that is used as a dip on grilled meats, gyros and salads. Even though the original recipe is still a favourite, there are changes that can be made like lemon juice or mint to make it special.
Nutrition & Health:
Greek yogurt is also high in protein and probiotics for gut health and digestion. Cucumbers are low calorie and high hydration, making Tzatziki sauce a healthy, refreshing addition to a light meal or snack.
Conclusion:
Tzatziki sauce is an easy to use and delicious condiment for any meal — from the summer barbecue to a Mediterranean craving. In your own kitchen you can get the flavor of Greek food with only a few simple ingredients. Savour the creamy, Tzatziki and feel the flavors of the Mediterranean with each bite. Bon appétit!