Cacık, Fresh Harmony

A refreshing starter of pickled cucumbers in a tangy yogurt sauce with creamy cheese.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal.

Feel the freshness...

serving 4 People

time 60 min

INGREDIENTS

• 300 grams fresh cucumbers, peeled and sliced Cucumber

• 200 grams plain yogurt

• 150 grams feta cheese, crumbled

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

How to Cook

1. Begin by taking fresh cucumbers and slicing them into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. In a colander, combine these sliced cucumbers with a generous amount of salt and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The salt will draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, while the lemon juice adds a zesty flavor. Toss the mixture gently with your hands or a spoon to ensure that all the cucumber slices are evenly coated with the salt and lemon juice. Allow the cucumbers to drain in the sink for at least 10 minutes; this step is crucial as it not only helps to remove the excess water but also intensifies the flavor of the cucumbers, making them more vibrant and enjoyable in the final dish.

2. While the cucumbers are busy draining, turn your attention to preparing the creamy dressing. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add a generous scoop of plain yogurt, preferably Turkish yogurt for its thickness and tanginess. To this, drizzle in some high-quality olive oil, which will add richness and a smooth texture. Next, incorporate a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which provides a delightful sharpness that complements the other flavors beautifully. Mince a couple of cloves of garlic and add them to the bowl for a robust flavor kick. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper to taste. Using a whisk, blend all these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, ensuring that the flavors meld harmoniously.

3. After the cucumbers have drained sufficiently, it’s time to rinse them. Place the cucumbers under cold running water to wash away any excess salt that may linger. This step is essential to prevent the dish from becoming overly salty. Once rinsed, take a few sheets of kitchen paper or a clean kitchen towel and gently squeeze the cucumbers to remove any remaining moisture. Pat them dry lightly to ensure they are not dripping wet, as this could dilute the dressing later on.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the now-drained cucumbers with the creamy yogurt mixture you prepared earlier. This is where the magic happens, as the cucumbers will soak up the delicious flavors of the yogurt dressing. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring that each cucumber slice is well-coated with the creamy mixture. Be careful not to mash the cucumbers; a gentle stirring motion will suffice to keep them intact while ensuring an even distribution of the dressing.

5. Once the cucumbers and yogurt mixture are combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours. This resting period is important as it allows the flavors to develop further, and the cucumbers will absorb the delightful creaminess of the dressing, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

6. When you are ready to serve, take the bowl out of the refrigerator. For an added layer of flavor and texture, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the cucumber salad. The feta will provide a salty, tangy contrast to the creamy dressing and crunchy cucumbers. Additionally, finely chop some fresh dill and sprinkle it over the salad, as it adds a refreshing herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.

7. Finally, serve the salad chilled, either as a refreshing side dish or as a light entrée. The combination of the crisp cucumbers, the creamy yogurt dressing, the tangy feta, and the aromatic dill creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures that is sure to please your guests and family alike. This dish is perfect for hot summer days or as a complement to grilled meats, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Cacık, Fresh Harmony

PROTIPS

For a spicier salad, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

To make it more tangy, add a tablespoon of lemon juice.