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Tzatziki is a traditional Greek; yogurt, cucumber and garlic sauce. In the United States, Tzatziki is most commonly served on a gyro pita sandwich. Tzatziki not only makes a great topping for gyros but it also can be served as a lite dressing, or as a vegetable dip. Since Tzatziki is made with Yogurt it can be considered a healthy alternative to heavier high calorie dressings.

For this recipe you will need Plain Greek Yogurt. Most grocery stores carry Greek Yogurt, however if you cannot find it, or want to save a few dollars there is an alternative. Plain Yogurt may be used as a substitute by placing it in a paper towel or tea towel lined strainer and allowing it to set over a bowl for 10 hours. This will drain excess moisture from the yogurt.

You may need a strainer, mixing bowl, and tea towel if you are “making” Greek Yogurt. Otherwise a small bowl, a cutting board and sharp knife will do just fine.

INGREDIENTS:

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

2 Cups of Plain Greek Yogurt *See what to buy, for alternatives

1 large cucumber, peeled, seeded, minced, drained

2 large cloves of garlic, minced (about 2 tbsp)

2 tsp chopped Mint

2 tsp chopped Dill

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tbsp Olive Oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

Start by peeling one large cucumber. Slice the cucumber in half and remove the seeds from the center and discard them. Next mince the cucumber add a pinch of salt and squeeze as much water from the cucumber as possible. Place cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill and chopped mint, lemon juice and olive oil in to a bowl and stir. Last incorporate the yogurt in to the mix. Once all of the ingredients are mixed together you may serve, or cover and refrigerate to allow the flavors to come together.