Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess water. Squeeze out any remaining water and transfer the zucchinis to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the chopped mint leaves and walnuts to the mixing bowl.
3. In a food processor, combine the tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
4. Pour the tahini mixture over the zucchini mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve the zucchini and mint tarator chilled, garnished with additional chopped mint leaves and walnuts.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 220
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of zucchini, you can use cucumber or yellow squash.
- Instead of walnuts, you can use almonds or pine nuts.
- Instead of tahini, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cumin or paprika for extra flavor.
- Top with pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Use basil instead of mint for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated zucchinis to prevent the tarator from becoming too watery.
- If the tarator is too thick, add more water or lemon juice to thin it out.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover tarator in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Tarator is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the tarator in a shallow bowl or on a platter, garnished with chopped mint leaves and walnuts.
Garnishes:
- Chopped mint leaves and walnuts
Pairings:
- Serve with pita bread or crackers for dipping.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled chicken or fish
- Roasted vegetables
- Quinoa salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the tarator is too watery, add more walnuts or tahini to thicken it up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the zucchinis and mint leaves thoroughly before using.
Food history:
- Tarator is a traditional Middle Eastern dip made with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. This recipe puts a twist on the classic by adding grated zucchini and fresh mint.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, nutty, and tangy with a hint of sweetness from the zucchini.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack.
Related Categories
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Region: Bulgarian
Taste: Creamy, Minty, Tangy, Refreshing