Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This Yogurt Dill Dressing Cava recipe is a Mediterranean masterpiece that comes together in minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal or a light and satisfying lunch. The creamy yogurt dressing, bursting with fresh dill and lemon, complements the crisp cava perfectly, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. It's a healthy meal that's both easy and delicious – the best of both worlds!
Ingredients:
For the Yogurt Dill Dressing:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cava Salad:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
- 1 cup Cava (or other small, crunchy lettuce)
Instructions:
Making the Yogurt Dill Dressing:
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In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
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Set the dressing aside while you prepare the Cava salad.
Assembling the Cava Salad:
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In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, rinsed chickpeas, feta cheese (if using), and Kalamata olives (if using).
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Gently toss the vegetables and chickpeas with the prepared yogurt dill dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the vegetables crisp.
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Add the Cava just before serving to avoid wilting. Gently toss to combine.
Tips for the Best Yogurt Dill Dressing Cava:
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For the freshest flavor, use fresh dill. If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried dill, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
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If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a tablespoon or two of water or more lemon juice.
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Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or avocado would all be delicious additions.
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This salad is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The Cava might wilt slightly, so it's best to add it just before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Cava Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a kick.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or falafel for a more substantial meal.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Yogurt Dill Dressing Cava recipe is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for any occasion. It’s a healthy and delicious choice for a quick weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or a refreshing side dish. Enjoy!