Refreshing Cucumber-Dill Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki is a refreshing and flavorful sauce that can be used as a dip, spread, or condiment. It's made with Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and lemon juice. This recipe for Refreshing Cucumber-Dill Tzatziki Sauce is a bit lighter than traditional tzatziki, thanks to the use of Persian cucumbers. Persian cucumbers are smaller and less watery than regular cucumbers, so they give the sauce a creamier texture. The sauce is also flavored with fresh dill and lemon juice, which gives it a bright and herbaceous flavor.

Tzatziki is a centuries-old sauce that originated in Greece. It is believed to have been created by shepherds who needed a portable and refreshing snack to eat while tending their flocks. Tzatziki is typically made with Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and olive oil. However, there are many variations on the recipe, and some people also add dill, mint, or other herbs.Tzatziki is a versatile sauce that can be used as a dip, spread, or condiment. It is often served with pita bread, vegetable crudités, or grilled meats. Tzatziki is also a popular ingredient in gyros and other Greek dishes.This recipe for Refreshing Cucumber-Dill Tzatziki Sauce is a bit lighter than traditional tzatziki, thanks to the use of Persian cucumbers. Persian cucumbers are smaller and less watery than regular cucumbers, so they give the sauce a creamier texture. The sauce is also flavored with fresh dill and lemon juice, which gives it a bright and herbaceous flavor.

Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2 Persian cucumbers, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, plain
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Grate the cucumbers using a box grater or a food processor fitted with the grating attachment.
2. Place the grated cucumbers in a colander set over a bowl and let them drain for 10 minutes.
3. Use a paper towel to gently squeeze out any excess water from the cucumbers.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the drained cucumbers, Greek yogurt, olive oil, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir until well combined.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Before serving, stir in the parsley and lemon juice.
8. Serve chilled with pita bread, vegetable crudites, or grilled meats.

Why It Works

• The use of Persian cucumbers gives the sauce a creamier texture.
• The fresh dill and lemon juice give the sauce a bright and herbaceous flavor.
• The sauce is refrigerated for at least 30 minutes before serving, which allows the flavors to meld.