Refreshing Cucumber and Mint Greek Tzatziki Dip

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup cucumber grated and drained
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Instructions

1. 1 Start by preparing the cucumber. Peel and grate it, then place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible and set aside.
2. 2 In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, and finely chopped mint leaves.
3. 3 Add the minced garlic, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the yogurt mixture.
4. 4 Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
5. 5 Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice if desired.
6. 6 Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7 Before serving, give the dip a good stir and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with additional mint leaves if desired.
8. 8 Serve chilled with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or as a sauce for grilled meats.