The word cacık means self-grown edible plant. Cacik, one of the classic appetizers of the traditional Turkish cuisine, is made with cucumber mixed with garlic buttermilk in a thick consistency. In other words, the ancestor of cacik is actually "green tzatziki". Cucumber, zucchini and green tzatziki with lots of fresh herbs are also a cool start. Enjoy your meal!
Peel the cucumbers and cut them in 2 lengthwise. Remove the core in the middle with a teaspoon and cut into small cubes. Peel the zucchini, remove the seeds from the middle and chop finely. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and set aside.
Wash the fresh basil leaves, mint leaves, and chopped dill and put them in iced water. Meanwhile, peel and finely chop 2 cloves of garlic. Take the herbs out of the water and blend them with the garlic and 1 glass of yogurt in a hand blender.
Take all the ingredients in a deep serving bowl and add the remaining yogurt, cucumber and zucchini and mix. Drizzle olive oil over it, garnish with fresh mint leaves, and serve cold with ice if you wish. Enjoy your meal !
Keep in mind: You can click on each ingredient to find other recipes that use that ingredient.
Cucumber:
Cucumber, with over 95% water content, is an excellent hydration source. Its low-calorie profile, coupled with Vitamin K and antioxidants, supports bone health and may help reduce inflammation. It also contains silica, known for its skin benefits. Cucumber pairs wonderfully with yogurt, tomatoes, mint, and dill in dishes like salads and tzatziki.
Zucchini:
Zucchini (kabak) is rich in dietary fiber, Vitamin C for immunity, and potassium, benefiting heart and digestive health. It also contains powerful antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, crucial for eye health. Low in calories and high in water, it's ideal for healthy diets. It pairs wonderfully with yogurt, garlic, dill, and olive oil.
Fresh Basil:
Fresh basil, rich in powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory eugenol, supports immunity and reduces cell damage. It's high in Vitamin K, contributing to bone health, and aids digestion. It pairs perfectly with tomatoes, mozzarella, garlic, and olive oil, while also adding a unique aroma to chicken and fish dishes.
Dill:
Dill is an aromatic herb frequently used in kitchens, rich in vitamins A and C, and various minerals. It is known for its digestive support, carminative (gas-reducing), and antioxidant properties. It also contains calcium, which can contribute to bone health. It adds a fresh touch to salads, cacık (yogurt dip), olive oil dishes, and fish meals.
Strained Yogurt:
Strained Yogurt is a thick, protein-rich dairy product obtained by removing its whey. Its high protein content is excellent for muscle development and sustained satiety. The straining process can lower lactose levels, potentially making it easier to digest for some. It's a good source of probiotics that support gut microbiota and calcium essential for strong bones. It pairs perfectly with garlic, olive oil, and fresh mint in savory appetizers, or with honey and fruits for breakfast or dessert.
Fresh Mint:
Fresh mint soothes the digestive system, alleviates nausea, and freshens breath with its invigorating effect. Its antioxidant content supports immunity, while its calming properties can help reduce stress. It pairs wonderfully with fruits like lemon, cucumber, and strawberries. It can also be used as a flavor enhancer in tzatziki, salads, and certain main dishes. An essential for summer drinks and desserts.
Garlic:
Garlic, thanks to its allicin compound, offers strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can boost the immune system, increasing resistance against illnesses. Furthermore, it contributes to cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure and balance cholesterol levels. Widely used in traditional medicine, garlic is also known for its digestive support effects. An indispensable ingredient in meat dishes, vegetable sautés, and Mediterranean cuisine, it pairs wonderfully with herbs like rosemary and thyme.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil, especially in its extra virgin form, is a powerful source of health benefits due to its high content of polyphenol antioxidants and monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid). It supports heart health by helping to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL). With its anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces inflammation in the body, prevents cell damage, and provides protection against chronic diseases. It supports the digestive system and contributes to skin health. An indispensable part of Mediterranean cuisine, it pairs wonderfully with salads, vegetable dishes, fish, legumes, and fresh bread.
Fine Salt:
Fine salt is crucial for maintaining the body's vital electrolyte balance, playing a key role in nerve transmission and muscle functions. It supports cellular hydration and contributes to stomach acid production, aiding nutrient absorption. Consumed in moderation, it's essential for sustaining overall bodily functions. As a fundamental seasoning in almost all cuisines, it deepens the flavor of dishes from vegetables to meats, soups to salads, and enhances the aroma of other spices. It pairs wonderfully with black pepper, oregano, and garlic.
Tzatziki is one of the indispensable appetizers of Turkish cuisine. It is a refreshing and delicious cold appetizer prepared with simple ingredients such as yoghurt, cucumber, garlic and mint. It is preferred to be…
Dried tzatziki is a thicker and less watery version of the classic tzatziki. This delicious appetizer, prepared with basic ingredients such as yoghurt, cucumber, garlic and mint, is one of the indispensables of Turkish…
Salatalıkları yıkayıp alacalı soyun ve rendenin iri tarafından geçirin. Bir çay kaşığı kadar tuz ekip bir kenara alın. Yarım demet taze nane ve yarım demet taze fesleğeni yıkayıp süzdürün, bir…
Tarator, one of the most popular appetizers of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine, is said to have ancient Greek and Venetian origins. The main ingredients of the classic tarator are walnuts, breadcrumbs (or bulgur),…
25 Min
Recipes by ingredients you have in your fridge!
Smart recipes from Turkish and Greek cuisines, carefully prepared and filtered according to the ingredients you have, are at your fingertips!
Flourless zucchini liked is a light and delicious zucchini dish made without using flour. This dish, which is created by roasting the zucchinis well and flavoring them with spices, meets the delicious aroma of olive…
The plateau soup, which carries the soft texture of the yogurt and the spacious aroma of the mint, maintains its classic flavor without adding eggs. This recipe, which adapts to every meal with its light and balanced…
For: 6 People
Prep: 10 Min
5 Min
