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 consumed especially in summer months. It is very easy and fast to prepare. It is a perfect choice to accompany meat or as a snack on its own.
Prepare the cucumbers: Peel the cucumbers and grate them using a coarse grater. Separate the grated cucumbers in a bowl.
Prepare the yoghurt mixture: In a large bowl, whisk the yoghurt, cold water and grated garlic thoroughly with a wire whisk. Continue whisking until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
Add cucumbers: Add grated cucumbers and finely chopped dill (optional) to the yoghurt mixture you prepared and mix.
Add spices: Add salt and finely chopped mint (or fresh mint) to the mixture and mix again. You can adjust the amount of salt according to your taste.
Serve: Place the prepared tzatziki in serving bowls. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh dill.
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.
Yogurt:
Yogurt, a fermented milk product, supports the digestive system and helps balance gut flora due to its rich probiotic content. This contributes to strengthening the immune system. It is also a high-quality source of protein and calcium, important for bone health and muscle development. With its slightly sour taste, it pairs perfectly with fruits, granola, or honey for breakfast. In main dishes, it adds flavor as the main component of cacık or various mezzes.
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.
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.
Dried Mint:
Dried Mint is a kitchen staple. It's particularly effective in soothing the digestive system, helping alleviate bloating and gas. Its antioxidant content supports immunity. Known for its refreshing properties, it pairs wonderfully with yogurt-based dishes, lentil soup, lamb, and various salads.
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.
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