Ingredients and Weight:
- Plain Greek yogurt - 500 grams
- Cucumber - 1 medium, peeled and diced
- Mint leaves - 10-15 leaves, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil - 3 tablespoons
- Salt - 1 teaspoon (adjust according to taste)
- Diced white onions or scallions - 1 small, about 100 grams
- Ground white pepper or black pepper - a few pinches (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: None (this is a cold appetizer)
Difficulty Level:
Level 2: Moderate. Simple mixing of ingredients with no cooking required.
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped mint leaves, olive oil, and salt.
- Add diced onions or scallions and mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, add a few pinches of ground white or black pepper.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or as a dip with pita chips or vegetables.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: ~200 per serving (assuming no additional seasoning salts or oils)
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Dish Characteristics:
- A cool and refreshing appetizer, typical of Greek cuisine.
- Rich in yogurt, which provides a creamy and smooth texture.
- Herbs and cucumber add a fresh and flavorful contrast to the yogurt.
- Can be served as a standalone dish or paired with meats or sandwiches.
User Comments:
- "This is an excellent Greek-style appetizer! The mint and cucumber added a delightful flavor." - John Doe
- "Love the simplicity of this dish. It's perfect for a hot summer day." - Jane Smith
- "I added a bit more olive oil and pepper for a spicier kick. Delicious!" - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer and creamier texture.
- For best results, let the tzatziki sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to blend.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially the salt as it can vary depending on the brand of yogurt used.
