Tzatziki with red beet

Beetroot Tzatziki – A funky and vibrant twist

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a fresh, creamy sauce packed with flavors? Tzatziki is a classic dish, but today we’re adding a modern and colorful twist by incorporating beetroot. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests at a party or simply enjoying a healthy appetizer at home. Beetroot tzatziki is not only a burst of colors but also a delicious combination of textures and flavors that will transform any meal into a memorable experience.

The History of Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a traditional sauce rooted in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly popular across various cultures. Over time, it has evolved into different variations, but its essence remains the same: a creamy blend of yogurt, cucumbers, and garlic. The addition of beetroot brings not only a touch of originality but also nutritional benefits, making this sauce not only tasty but healthy.

Nutritional Benefits

Beetroot is a superfood, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It contributes to heart health, boosts the immune system, and may enhance athletic performance. Full-fat yogurt provides essential proteins and probiotics beneficial for digestion. Together, these ingredients create a healthy sauce that can be used in numerous ways.

Necessary Ingredients

- 2 small beetroots (about 200 g)
- 200 g full-fat yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic (or more if you’re a garlic lover)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh dill
- Salt to taste

Step by Step for Perfect Tzatziki

1. Preparing the Beetroot: Start by washing the beetroot thoroughly. Use a large grater to grate it. Be careful not to stain yourself, as beetroot can leave strong color marks. You can wear kitchen gloves to avoid stains.

2. Salting the Beetroot: Once grated, place the beetroot in a bowl and sprinkle a little salt over it. This will help draw out the juices from the beetroot, preventing the sauce from becoming too watery. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.

3. Preparing the Garlic: Meanwhile, crush the garlic clove with a knife and chop it finely. Fresh garlic will add a strong and aromatic note to your sauce.

4. Mixing the Ingredients: After the beetroot has sat with the salt, gently squeeze it with your hands to remove excess liquid. This step is essential to avoid a watery sauce. Add the squeezed beetroot to a large bowl.

5. Adding the Yogurt: Pour the full-fat yogurt over the grated beetroot. Make sure to use quality yogurt, as it will influence the final texture and taste of the sauce.

6. Adding Flavors: Incorporate the chopped garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Finely chopped fresh dill will add a note of freshness. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients are well combined.

7. Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt to your liking. It’s important to adjust the salt according to your preferences, and if you like a tangier taste, you can add more lemon juice.

8. Serving: Tzatziki is best served cold, so refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and blend perfectly. You can serve it with fresh vegetables, warm pita, or as a side for grilled meat.

Serving Suggestions

Beetroot tzatziki is versatile and can be used in many ways. It makes a perfect accompaniment for kebabs or steaks, but also a delicious dip for fresh vegetables, pita chips, or even tortillas. You can also add it to sandwiches or wraps for an extra burst of flavor.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can try adding other ingredients such as:

- Avocado for extra creaminess
- Fresh mint instead of dill for a cooler taste
- A pinch of cumin or paprika for a more exotic flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beetroot?
Yes, you can use canned beetroot, but make sure to drain it well and rinse it to reduce added salt.

2. Can tzatziki be stored in the fridge?
Yes, it can be stored in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days. Its flavor will intensify as it sits.

3. Is this a vegan recipe?
To make a vegan version, you can use soy or cashew yogurt, ensuring it is unsalted.

Calories and Nutritional Information

This beetroot tzatziki recipe contains approximately 120 calories per serving, making it a healthy and nourishing option. Yogurt provides protein, while beetroot is rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium.

In conclusion, beetroot tzatziki is not just a simple and quick recipe, but also an excellent way to add color and flavor to your meals. By experimenting with various variations, you can turn this sauce into a personal favorite. So, don’t hesitate to try it and share this recipe with friends and family!