Are you a fan of tzatziki sauce but looking for a slightly different flavor profile? This recipe offers a vibrant and delicious alternative to traditional tzatziki, skipping the dill for a unique and refreshing taste. Perfect as a dip with pita bread, a topping for grilled meats, or a creamy addition to your favorite vegetables, this no-dill tzatziki is a game-changer! It’s an easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights, and counts as one of those healthy meals you can feel good about serving your family. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for best results)
- 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cucumber: Peel the cucumber, halve it lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. This step is crucial for reducing excess moisture and ensuring a thicker, creamier sauce. Grate the cucumber using a box grater and place it in a fine-mesh sieve. Sprinkle a generous pinch of salt over the grated cucumber and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture. After 10-15 minutes, gently squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Mix Well: Stir all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add more lemon juice for extra zing or a pinch more salt for extra flavor.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is important; the flavors will deepen significantly after chilling. Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or as a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. This makes for a fantastic quick dinner idea!
Tips for the Best Tzatziki (No Dill!):
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final flavor. Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier texture.
- Don't Skip the Salting: Salting the cucumber and letting it drain is essential for preventing a watery sauce.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, lemon juice, or oregano to suit your preferences. Some people prefer a stronger garlic flavor, while others prefer a more subtle taste.
- Make it Ahead: This tzatziki sauce is even better the next day after the flavors have had time to blend.
Variations:
- Spicy Tzatziki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herby Tzatziki: Experiment with other herbs like fresh mint or parsley for a different aromatic profile. A small amount of chopped chives could work well, too.
- Lemon-Mint Tzatziki: Boost the citrus notes with extra lemon zest and add fresh mint for a refreshing summer twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 7-9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
This no-dill tzatziki recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. It's a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!