Refreshing Cucumber and Yogurt Soup

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and grated (500g) 2 large cucumbers, peeled and grated (500g)
• 2 cups (470ml) plain yogurt 2 cups (470ml) plain yogurt
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill and cucumber slices for garnish Fresh dill and cucumber slices for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 9g, 7g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the grated cucumbers, yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. 2.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. 3.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the mixture until smooth.
4. 4.
   Refrigerate the soup for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Serve the chilled soup in bowls, garnished with fresh dill and cucumber slices.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cucumbers — Make sure to remove the seeds before grating to avoid excess moisture in the soup.
• Yogurt — Opt for a thick and creamy yogurt for the best texture.
• Garlic — For a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of garlic used.
• Dill — Fresh dill is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but dried dill can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
• Lemon juice — Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your preference for acidity.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, strain the grated cucumbers before adding them to the soup.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more yogurt or water, depending on your preference.
• Serve the Tarator with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch of flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs like mint or parsley to customize the taste.
• Tarator can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Tarator chilled as a refreshing appetizer or light lunch. It pairs well with crusty bread or pita chips for dipping.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of Tarator with a sprig of fresh dill and a few cucumber slices to add a pop of color. Serve in clear glass bowls or cups to showcase the vibrant green color of the soup.