Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line a colander with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel and place it over a bowl.
2. Pour the Greek yogurt into the colander and let it strain for 2-3 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Once the yogurt is strained, transfer it to a mixing bowl.
4. Add the diced cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, chopped mint, and lemon juice to the bowl.
5. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Straining time: 2-3 hours
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 16g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 80mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use regular plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt, but the salad will be less thick and creamy.
- If you don't have fresh dill or mint, you can use dried herbs instead.
Variations:
- Add chopped tomatoes, red onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.
- Add a pinch of cumin or paprika for a Middle Eastern twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to strain the yogurt for at least 2 hours to remove excess liquid and make it thicker.
- You can make the salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serve the salad as a side dish or as a dip with pita bread or crackers.
Storage instructions:
- Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This salad is best served chilled and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
- Fresh dill or mint leaves
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Pita bread, crackers, or sliced vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or olive oil to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils and a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth when straining the yogurt.
Food history:
- Strained yogurt and cucumber salad is a traditional dish in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, tangy, and refreshing
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the salad as a side dish or as a dip with pita bread or crackers.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Greek
Taste: Creamy, Tangy, Refreshing, Herby