Introduction
This refreshing recipe centers around the delightful combination of cucumbers and Greek yogurt, creating a creamy and tangy sauce or dip that perfectly complements a variety of dishes. Ideal for gyros wraps or as a dip, this easy-to-make recipe is not only delicious but also packed with flavor.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 Lebanese cucumbers (Persian cucumbers), 20cm/8″ long, to make about 1/2 – 3/4 cup shredded cucumber after squeezing out juice
1 1/4 cups Greek yogurt or Greek-style yogurt, preferably full fat
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more if you want richer)
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 heaped teaspoon cooking salt / kosher salt (halve for table salt, +50% for flakes)
Pinch of black pepper
2 tbsp finely chopped dill (or mint), OPTIONAL
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 – 5 generously
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Cucumber
Cut the two Lebanese cucumbers in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon to scoop out the seeds from each half, ensuring you remove the watery parts. After deseeding, coarsely grate the cucumbers using a box grater.
Squeeze Out Excess Liquid
Wrap the grated cucumber in a clean tea towel. Twist the towel to squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible, leaving you with dry grated cucumber.
Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, place the squeezed cucumber. Add 1 1/4 cups of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 heaped teaspoon of cooking salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Optionally, add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped dill or mint if desired.
Mix Thoroughly
Stir all the ingredients in the bowl until they are well combined, ensuring an even mixture throughout.
Let Flavors Meld
Set the mixture aside for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.
Serve or Store
You can use the sauce immediately or transfer it to an airtight container. If storing, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Recipe Quantity Note
The recipe uses 1 1/4 cups of yogurt for optimal serving size, making enough to serve 4-5 generously. Adjusting to 1 cup may leave you short, while 2 cups may result in excess.
Fresh Herbs
If using this sauce as a dip, I recommend adding fresh dill or mint. When serving as a sauce for wraps or burgers, you may skip the special trip for fresh herbs; dill is preferred, but mint is lovely for spicier Middle Eastern dishes like Chicken Shawarma.
Nutrition Note
The nutritional information provided is for the entire batch of the sauce.
Cook techniques
Deseeding
Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a teaspoon to scrape out the watery seeds.
Shredding
Coarsely grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater to achieve the desired shredded texture.
Squeezing
Wrap the grated cucumber in a clean tea towel and twist to squeeze out excess liquid, ensuring a thicker consistency for the dish.
Mixing
Combine the shredded cucumber with the remaining ingredients in a bowl and mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
Resting
Set aside the mixture for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cucumber?
While Lebanese or Persian cucumbers are ideal, you can use regular cucumbers; just ensure to deseed them.
What type of yogurt is best for this recipe?
Greek yogurt or Greek-style yogurt is recommended, preferably full fat for a creamier texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I substitute the dill or mint?
Yes, while fresh dill or mint is recommended, you can omit the herbs or use dried variations if necessary.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this sauce is perfect for meal prep and can be used as a dip or a sauce for wraps and burgers.
Conclusion
This creamy Greek yogurt sauce with shredded cucumber is a refreshing addition to various dishes. It perfectly complements gyros and wraps, is easy to prepare, and can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator. The blend of flavors, especially with fresh dill or mint, elevates any meal, making it a versatile recipe to keep on hand.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Gyros Wrap
Pair this cucumber sauce with seasoned grilled meat, wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables.
Mediterranean Chicken Salad
Toss together grilled chicken, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a generous serving of this cucumber sauce as a dressing.
Vegetable Dip
Serve this sauce with a platter of fresh veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and celery for a delightful snack.
Quinoa Bowl
Top a bowl of quinoa with roasted vegetables and a dollop of this cucumber sauce for a healthy, filling meal.
Shawarma Spiced Burgers
Use this sauce as a topping for spiced beef or chicken burgers, adding a cool contrast to the spices.
Grilled Fish Tacos
Drizzle this creamy sauce over grilled fish tacos for a refreshing finish to the dish.
