Cucumber Greek Dip Recipe from Greece - Made with Fresh Cucumbers, Dill, Mayonnaise, and Sour Cream

Cucumber Greek Dip

Cucumber Greek Dip Recipe from Greece - Made with Fresh Cucumbers, Dill, Mayonnaise, and Sour Cream
Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Cucumber Greek Dip
Cucumber Greek Dip

Cucumber Greek Dip is a refreshing and flavorful dip that is perfect for parties, picnics, or as a healthy snack. This dip is made with fresh cucumbers, yogurt, garlic, and mint, giving it a light and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with crackers or chopped veggies.

History

Cucumber Greek Dip is a traditional Greek dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Cucumbers have long been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, and this dip is a delicious way to showcase their fresh and crisp flavor. The addition of yogurt, garlic, and mint adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it a favorite among food lovers around the world.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a bowl, combine a finely chopped, seeded, peeled cucumber, 1 cup of plain yogurt, 0.5 tbsp of vinegar, 0.5 tbsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of minced garlic, chopped mint, and salt.
  2. Serve with crackers or chopped veggies.

Variations

  • You can customize this recipe by adding chopped dill, parsley, or red onion for extra flavor. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making Cucumber Greek Dip, be sure to use a high-quality, thick yogurt for the best texture and flavor. You can also adjust the amount of garlic and mint to suit your personal taste preferences. For a smoother dip, you can blend the ingredients together in a food processor or blender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cucumber Greek Dip with crackers, pita bread, or chopped veggies for a delicious and healthy snack.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires no cooking, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a thicker and creamier dip. You can also use sour cream in place of yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Cucumber Greek Dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dip with a sprig of fresh mint or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cucumber Greek Dip pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or falafel. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let the dip come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 60

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 6g per serving

Fats

Fats: 3g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Cucumber Greek Dip is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and is not suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Cucumber Greek Dip is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dip that is perfect for a healthy snack or appetizer.

Summary

Cucumber Greek Dip is a light and refreshing dip that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients and tangy flavor, this dip is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in Greece. I had always been intrigued by the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients of Greek cuisine, and I was eager to learn as much as I could during my stay.

One sunny afternoon, my aunt decided to teach me how to make a traditional Greek cucumber dip. She called it "tzatziki," and it was a refreshing blend of creamy yogurt, crisp cucumbers, garlic, and dill. As we gathered the ingredients and prepared the dip together, I was captivated by the simple yet delicious combination of flavors.

My aunt explained that this dip was a staple in Greek households, often served with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a topping for gyros. She shared with me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients, and how the key to a successful tzatziki was to drain the cucumbers to remove excess moisture.

As we mixed the ingredients together and allowed the flavors to meld, my aunt told me stories of her own childhood in Greece. She reminisced about the long summer days spent in her grandmother's kitchen, watching and learning as she prepared traditional dishes with love and care.

I was inspired by her passion for cooking and her dedication to preserving her family's culinary heritage. I knew then that I wanted to follow in her footsteps and carry on the tradition of sharing these recipes with future generations.

After our dip was ready, my aunt and I sat down to enjoy it together. The cool, tangy flavors danced on my palate, and I knew that this would become a favorite in my own kitchen. I made a mental note to write down the recipe and practice making it on my own when I returned home.

Over the years, I have perfected my own version of the Greek cucumber dip, adding a touch of lemon zest and a sprinkle of paprika for a unique twist. I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who have all praised its deliciousness and authenticity.

Each time I make this dip, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Greece, learning from my aunt and immersing myself in the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills that she passed down to me, and I take pride in carrying on the legacy of these time-honored recipes.

As I sit here now, mixing together the creamy yogurt, crunchy cucumbers, and fragrant dill, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I may have learned this recipe from my aunt in Greece, but it is now a part of my own culinary repertoire, a symbol of the love and connection that food can bring to our lives.

And so, with each bite of this delicious cucumber Greek dip, I honor my past, celebrate my present, and look forward to the future adventures that await me in the kitchen. Cooking is not just about sustenance; it is a form of art, a way to connect with others, and a means of preserving our cultural heritage. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the memories I have made along the way. And as I continue to cook and share these recipes with those I love, I know that I am keeping alive the spirit of my ancestors and passing on a legacy of food, family, and tradition.

Categories

| Cathy's Recipes | Cucumber Recipes | Dip Recipes | Greek Recipes |

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