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I’m so excited to share a recipe that has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen—Creamy Cucumber Quark Tzatziki. If you’re looking for a dip that’s both refreshing and satisfying, this one hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, preparing a quick snack, or just craving something delicious, this tzatziki is sure to impress.
I love how the cool crunch of cucumber blends with the creamy quark, while the fresh dill and garlic add that wonderful punch of flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! So, grab your ingredients and let’s create a dip that’s not only healthy but also packed with taste. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: The blend of cucumber, dill, and garlic creates a burst of fresh flavors that are both satisfying and invigorating.
- Light and Healthy: Using low-fat quark keeps the dip light and creamy without being heavy, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
- Versatile: This tzatziki pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from fresh vegetables and pita bread to grilled meats and seafood.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple, readily available ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to make, with minimal cleanup.
Ingredient Notes:
- Cucumber: Peeled and grated, then squeezed to remove excess water.
- Low-fat quark: For a creamy, light texture.
- Dill: Fresh and finely chopped for a burst of flavor.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and a smooth texture.
- Lemon juice: Provides a tangy brightness.
- Vinegar: Enhances the flavor with a bit of acidity.
- Garlic cloves: Minced for a sharp, aromatic kick.
- Agave syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Salt: To taste, enhances overall flavor.
- Pepper: Freshly ground for a bit of spice.
Tips:
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, dill, and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
- Alternative Sweetener: If you don’t have agave syrup, you can substitute it with honey or leave it out for a less sweet version.
- Make Ahead: This dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for parties and gatherings.
What to Eat with Tzatziki
- Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up tzatziki. You can cut it into wedges and serve it alongside for a delicious and easy appetizer.
- Fresh Vegetables: Crisp, raw veggies like cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper strips, and carrot sticks make a great healthy snack when dipped into tzatziki.
- Grilled Meats: Tzatziki is an excellent complement to grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef. It adds a refreshing contrast to smoky flavors.
- Falafel: This classic pairing adds a wonderful contrast between the creamy dip and the crunchy, flavorful falafel.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Use tzatziki as a spread in sandwiches or wraps for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Separation: You may notice that some of the liquid separates from the dip. Simply give it a good stir before serving to reincorporate the flavors.
- Freezing: While tzatziki is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Place it in an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir before serving.
More Dips You’ll Love
The Best Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Avocado Dip with Roasted Tomatoes
Creamy Cucumber Quark Tzatziki
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber
- 300 g low-fat quark
- 1 tbsp dill finely chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Begin by peeling the cucumber, especially if it's from your garden and has a tough skin.
- Grate the cucumber using a grater.
- Once grated, squeeze out the excess water from the cucumber using your hands. This step is crucial to prevent the dip from becoming too watery.
- In a large bowl, combine the quark, finely chopped dill, lemon juice, vinegar, minced garlic, grated cucumber, olive oil, and agave syrup.
- Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
Notes
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of dill, garlic, or lemon juice according to your taste preferences.
- Sweetener Alternative: If you don’t have agave syrup, honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives or omitted if you prefer a less sweet dip.
- Make Ahead: This dip is ideal for preparing in advance, as it keeps well in the refrigerator and can be made a day before serving.