Turkish Tzatziki

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated and drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Optional garnish: a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika or dried mint

Instructions:

1. Start by grating the cucumber. Once grated, place it in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a bowl and sprinkle with a little salt. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow excess moisture to drain.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, and optional chopped mint.
3. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated cucumber and add it to the yogurt mixture.
4. Add the olive oil and lemon juice to the bowl.
5. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
6. Taste the cacık and adjust the seasoning with salt if necessary.
7. Transfer the cacık to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika or dried mint.
8. Chill the cacık in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Serve chilled as a refreshing dip or side dish.

Enjoy your homemade Cacık!