Oriental pasta

Name: Oriental pasta - Sabrina N.
Ingredients: 1 large cucumber 1 ripe avocado 2 cloves of garlic 400 g Greek yogurt 3; 4 tablespoons sesame paste (tahini) a pinch of turmeric salt 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil sesame seeds

Appetizers - Oriental pasta by Sabrina N. - Recipia

I have made this appetizer several times, especially when I want something refreshing yet substantial. The first time I tried it on a summer evening, wanting to use some cucumbers that I didn't want to wilt. It's a combination I also make when I have guests, as it prepares quickly and doesn't require complicated ingredients. Quick info Total time: about 20 minutes Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: none required Servings: 4-6, as an appetizer Difficulty: easy Recipe type: cold appetizer, spread, vegan if you choose plant-based yogurt Ingredients 1 large cucumber 1 ripe avocado 2 cloves of garlic 400 g Greek yogurt 3-4 tablespoons tahini A pinch of turmeric Salt, to taste 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil Sesame seeds (for decoration) Preparation method 1. Peel the cucumber and grate it on the large side of the grater. 2. Place the grated cucumber in a sieve and press it with a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible. The liquid is not used. 3. Crush the garlic cloves or finely grate them. Add them over the cucumbers in a large bowl. 4. Peel the avocado and mash it or finely grate it. Mix it immediately with the cucumber and garlic to prevent oxidation. 5. Add salt, lemon juice, and olive oil. Mix well with a spoon until the mixture becomes as homogeneous as possible. 6. Add the Greek yogurt and a pinch of turmeric. Mix again until everything is incorporated. 7. Finally, add the tahini. Mix vigorously to distribute evenly. You can adjust the texture according to your preference if you want it denser or creamier. 8. Taste and add more salt if needed. Decorate with sesame seeds. You can also garnish with a little turmeric or olive oil if desired. 9. Serve the spread with Lebanese bread or other flatbreads. Why I make the recipe often I like it because it’s quick and uses ingredients I usually have on hand. It’s easy to adapt, doesn’t require cooking, and is filling without being heavy. It works well for lunch or dinner, or as a snack for guests. Tips and variations Tips If you use a very watery cucumber, it’s important to squeeze it well; otherwise, the spread will be too watery. The avocado should be ripe; otherwise, it won’t mash easily and will remain with hard pieces. Mix in the tahini at the end to prevent the mixture from curdling at the beginning. Adjust the lemon according to your preference, but don’t overdo it, as it can overshadow the flavor of the other ingredients. Substitutions You can use plant-based yogurt for a vegan version. If you don’t have tahini, you can omit it, but the taste will be different. Sesame paste is still essential for the original recipe. Instead of plain sesame seeds, you can use toasted seeds. Variations If you want a spicier taste, you can add a pinch of finely chopped chili pepper. You can add chopped herbs (dill or parsley), but the basic recipe doesn’t include them. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend everything, but I like to feel the pieces of avocado and cucumber. Serving ideas It goes best with Lebanese bread or other types of flatbreads. It can be used as a filling for cold sandwiches. It also pairs well as a side dish with other Oriental dishes. Frequently asked questions What type of yogurt should I use? The recipe works best with Greek yogurt because it has a dense texture. If you use a thinner yogurt, the spread will be softer. Can I make the spread without avocado? You can, but the texture and taste will be very different. Avocado makes the spread creamier. How long does it keep in the fridge? It’s best to consume it on the same day. It can last until the next day, but the texture will change, and the cucumber may release water. How can I prevent the spread from oxidizing? If you put lemon juice immediately over the avocado, it will keep its green color better. Can it be frozen? I do not recommend freezing, as the texture will not be good after thawing. Nutritional values Estimation for one serving (out of 6): approximately 160-180 kcal Protein: 5-6 g Fats: 10-12 g (mostly from avocado, yogurt, and tahini) Carbohydrates: 7-8 g Fiber: 2-3 g The values are approximate and may vary depending on the yogurt used and the amount of tahini. Storage and reheating The spread can be stored in the fridge in a covered container. Ideally, it should be eaten on the same day, but it can last until the next day, with the note that it may become more watery and change color due to the avocado. It does not require reheating and is served cold.

Oriental pasta

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