Greek Tzatziki

Tzatziki Elliniko – A Refreshing Delight Between the Mediterranean and the Table

Looking for a simple and delicious recipe that adds a touch of freshness to every meal? Tzatziki is the perfect choice! This creamy yogurt and cucumber sauce, seasoned with garlic and olive oil, is not only a savory accompaniment to various dishes but also a comforting snack on warm days. Besides being extremely easy to prepare, tzatziki is an expression of Mediterranean culinary traditions, with a rich history and often served at festive meals.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber or 2 small cucumbers
- 150-200 g of sour cream (preferably Tnuva or Greek yogurt)
- 1 clove of garlic (or to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- A fresh mint leaf (for garnish)
- 3-4 olives (for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the cucumber: The magic of tzatziki starts with the cucumber! Wash it well under cold running water. If using a large cucumber, cut it lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Now, grate it. This technique will release the juice from the vegetable, but it is essential to squeeze it well to avoid a watery sauce. Place it in a clean kitchen towel and gently squeeze.

2. Making the sauce: In a medium bowl, mash the garlic clove until it becomes a paste. Here, add the sour cream or Greek yogurt, combining it with the mashed garlic. Mix well until smooth. It is important to use quality sour cream, as it will affect the texture and final taste of the sauce.

3. Adding flavors: Now, add the 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, which will provide a touch of refinement and a rich flavor. Sprinkle salt to taste, keeping in mind that garlic and cucumber already have a distinct flavor. Mix everything again, ensuring that the ingredients are well integrated.

4. Combining the ingredients: Finally, add the grated cucumber to the bowl with the cream mixture. Use a spatula to gently combine the ingredients, ensuring not to lose the crunchy texture of the cucumber.

5. Serving: Transfer the tzatziki to a serving bowl. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf and place 3-4 olives around the sauce. This will not only look appetizing but will also provide a contrast of flavors.

6. Chilling: Although delicious immediately, let it sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and make the sauce even more refreshing.

Practical tips:
- If you want to experiment with flavors, add a little lemon juice or freshly chopped dill for an extra touch of freshness.
- Tzatziki pairs perfectly with vegetable platters, fresh pita, or as a dip for grilled dishes.
- For a vegan version, replace the sour cream with soy or coconut yogurt.

Nutritional benefits:
Tzatziki is not only tasty but also healthy! Cucumber is rich in water and fiber, contributing to hydration, while garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil is an essential ingredient in the Mediterranean diet, being a source of healthy fats that help maintain heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes, Greek yogurt is an excellent choice, providing a creamy texture and pleasant taste.
- How can I store tzatziki? Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3 days.
- Is tzatziki suitable for vegans? No, but you can adapt it using plant-based yogurt.

Delicious pairings:
Tzatziki pairs perfectly with kebabs, grilled fish, or fried vegetables. It is also an ideal accompaniment for a quinoa or couscous salad, adding an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on your apron and enjoy making this delicious sauce. Bon appétit! Kali orexi!