Cacık (Turkish Yogurt and Cucumber Dip)

Looking for a refreshing and healthy side dish for hot summer days? Try Cacık, a classic Turkish yogurt and cucumber dip that’s both cooling and flavorful. With garlic, olive oil, and fresh cucumbers, this dish is perfect as a light appetizer or a side to grilled meats.

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber

• 2 pinches of salt

• 1 garlic clove

• 1.5 cups plain yogurt

• 1.5 cups cold water

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Peel the cucumber in stripes and cut it in half lengthwise. Slice it thinly into half-moon shapes.

2. Place the cucumber slices in a bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and gently mix. Let them rest for a few minutes.

3. Mash the garlic with a little salt using a mortar and pestle.

4. Add the mashed garlic to the yogurt and whisk until smooth.

5. Pour the garlic yogurt over the cucumbers and mix until combined.

6. Transfer the cacık to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and serve cold.

Cacık is not just a dish; it’s a taste of Mediterranean freshness. Easy to make, healthy, and incredibly delicious — serve it as part of your meze table or as a cool dip with pita bread.