Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce goes great with all sorts of Mediterranean dishes as well as fish filets, chicken and other grilled meats and vegetables. Pictured above with Kofta meatballs and fresh vegetables, this makes for a delicious dinner. Tzatziki sauce is healthy as well made with plain Greek yogurt.

Ingredients

• 3/4 English cucumber, partially peeled (striped) and sliced
• 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
• 4 to 5 garlic cloves, peeled, finely grated or minced (you can use less if you prefer)
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp Early Harvest  Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 cups Greek yogurt (I used organic fat free Greek yogurt, but you can use 2% or whole milk Greek yogurt, if you like)
• 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
• Warm pita bread for serving
• Sliced vegetables for serving

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Instructions

1. Prep the cucumber. In a food processor, grate the cucumbers. Toss with 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Transfer to a fine mesh strainer over a deep bowl to drain. Spoon the grated cucumber into a cheese cloth or a double thickness napkin and squeeze dry. Set aside briefly.
2. In one large mixing bowl, place the garlic with remaining 1/2 tsp salt, white vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. Mix to combine.
3. Combine and chill. Add the grated cucumber to the large bowl with the garlic mixture. Stir in the yogurt and white pepper. Combine thoroughly. Cover tightly and refrigerate for a couple of hours.
4. When ready to serve, stir the tzatziki sauce to refresh and transfer to serving bowl, drizzle with more extra virgin olive oil, if you like. Add a side of warm pita bread and your favorite vegetables. (Also see notes for more ideas.) Enjoy!