The Olympics are over. Wasn't it just the other day we were talking about the Opening Ceremonies, Athená and Phèvos and the Marathon? Gone are the Rhythmic Gymnastics, Water Polo, and Fencing competitions. No more Synchronized Swimming nor Diving. Not for four more years anyway. Ohh well, it was great while it lasted!
So, in the spirit of all things Greek, Olympic and yummy I made, again, my favorite Greek sauce (more of a dip really), a garlicky and refreshingly cool Tzadziki. We had this for the Opening Ceremonies (part of my very own home Greek foodie celebration) two weeks ago and made it again tonight for the Closing Ceremonies. I used (of course!) Fage Greek Yogurt (do not even think of using any other kind, it just won't do) and the rest is easy peasy! One thing though: I love garlic so my tzadziki is quite garlicky. Also, the cucumber is not processed in the Cuisinart but chopped small, by hand, to keep it crunchy and to add a little green to an otherwise white-as-milk dip.
Seattle Bon Vivant Olympic Tzatziki
7 ounces Fage Total Classic Greek Yogurt (it is full fat, whole milk yogurt. It should render an creamier, richer tzadziki)
1 large cucumber, chopped finely
2-3 cloves garlic, grated (In a pinch I use Trader Joe's Dorot Crushed Garlic Cloves
Juice of half a small lemon
Light drizzle of olive oil
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
Salt to taste
Add all other ingredients to the yogurt. Stir. Refrigerate a couple hours or overnight. Serve with warm, grilled or toasted pita bread or Lavosh crackers. Serves 4.
Re: Dorot Crushed Garlic Cloves: One cube equals one ready peeled and crushed garlic clove (you do not defrost before use, just pop out as you would ice from a cube tray) . If you have never used these run, don't walk to your nearest Trader Joe's and buy 4-5 trays. They also offer Parsley, Coriander and Basil but sadly, Trader Joe's does not carry the Coriander in the same format. It is better than fresh in that it is pre-measured and fresh frozen, always at your fingertips. I swear by these! By the way, not only are they Imported from Israel but they are also Kosher/Parve
