Tzatziki

by Nate Rafn

August is a great time to purchase locally-grown cucumbers. Their crisp texture and refreshing taste are perfect for making one of my favorite condiments, Tzatziki.

Tzatziki is a perfect companion for grilled meats, burgers, and pita bread. Here's an easy recipe:

Tzatziki Sauce - makes 2 cups

1 lb. cucumber
1 small garlic clove, finely chopped
1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
pinch cayenne pepper
fresh dill or mint (optional)

Peel cucumber and slice it lengthwise; remove seeds with a spoon; and grate cucumber through a course cheese grater. It should yield about 2 cups.

Place grated cucumber on a kitchen towel, gather the corners, then squeeze out the juice.

Mix cucumber with garlic, yogurt, salt, cayenne pepper, and optional herbs.

Store finished tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator. Serve cold with meats and pita bread.

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