Yogurt sauce with feta cheese and garlic

Yogurt Sauce with Feta Cheese and Garlic: A Creamy and Flavorful Indulgence

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

I propose a delicious and simple recipe: yogurt sauce with feta cheese and garlic. This creamy sauce is perfect for accompanying fresh vegetables, grilled meat, or simply as a savory dip for crunchy rolls. It's a quick recipe, ideal for warm summer days, but can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

A brief history of yogurt sauce
Yogurt-based sauces are used in various cuisines around the world. They are appreciated not only for their fresh taste but also for the nutritional benefits they provide. Ingredients like yogurt and feta cheese are excellent sources of protein and calcium, while garlic adds not only flavor but also antibacterial properties.

Necessary ingredients
- 150 g Greek yogurt (2% fat)
- 150 g feta cheese
- 50 g sour cream (15% fat)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 pickled cucumbers (or fresh, as preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh or dried mint

Ingredient details
- Greek yogurt: This yogurt is denser and creamier than regular yogurt due to the straining process. It is rich in protein and low in fat, making it ideal for sauces.
- Feta cheese: This goat or sheep cheese brings a salty flavor and a crumbly texture, perfect for mixing with yogurt. Make sure it is well crumbled so it integrates evenly into the sauce.
- Garlic: Essential for adding an intense flavor and a bit of spiciness. You can adjust the amount according to your preferences.
- Cucumbers: They add a note of freshness and crunch to the sauce. If using fresh cucumbers, make sure to drain them to remove excess water.
- Mint: A surprising but delicious choice. Mint adds a refreshing taste and pairs perfectly with yogurt.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Draining the yogurt
Start by placing the Greek yogurt in a fine strainer or cheesecloth, allowing it to drain for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a denser, creamier sauce without excess liquid.

2. Preparing the cucumbers
If using pickled cucumbers, chop them very finely. If you choose fresh cucumbers, peel them, dice them into small cubes, and let them drain for 10 minutes to remove moisture.

3. Garlic
Peel the two garlic cloves and crush them well. If you want a sauce with a more intense flavor, you can add an extra clove of garlic.

4. Crumbling the feta cheese
In a small bowl, place the feta cheese and crumble it with a fork until it becomes a fine paste.

5. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained yogurt, crumbled feta cheese, cucumbers, crushed garlic, olive oil, and mint. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly integrated.

6. Chilling
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. This step is important to allow the flavors to meld and become more intense.

7. Serving
Remove the sauce from the refrigerator and mix it again. You can serve it alongside fresh vegetables, pita chips, or even as an accompaniment to grilled meat.

Serving suggestions
For an attractive presentation, you can garnish the sauce with a few fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of olive oil on top. This sauce pairs excellently with a Greek salad or a platter of appetizers.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but the sauce will be more liquid. It's recommended to drain it well before use.

- How can I make the sauce spicier?
You can add a few drops of Tabasco sauce or finely chopped chili pepper.

- Can it be stored in the refrigerator?
Yes, the sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Nutritional benefits
This sauce is rich in protein, calcium, and vitamins, thanks to its healthy ingredients. Greek yogurt and feta cheese are excellent for bone health, while garlic provides immune system benefits. Consuming cucumbers offers a significant intake of fiber and hydration.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can also add other spices or ingredients such as:
- Fresh dill instead of mint
- Roasted red pepper, finely chopped, for an extra flavor boost
- A drop of lemon juice for a note of acidity

This yogurt sauce recipe with feta cheese and garlic is not only simple but also extremely versatile. So, the next time you have guests or simply want to treat yourself, don't hesitate to prepare it! Enjoy!