Greek Cucumber Salad

This is definitely not an Italian dish but I love Greek food. Italians and Greeks share the love of lamb meat. Which pairs well with this and is refreshing accompaniment to any main dish of meat or fish, this cucumber-yogurt salad also makes a yummy filling for pita bread. If the cucumbers are grated instead of chopped, this mixture can be served as a dip.

Ingredients

1. 1 large cucumber peeled
2. Salt
3. 1/4 c plain GREEK style yogurt
4. 1 tsp lemon juice
5. 1-2 cloves garlic, minced and mashed
6. Freshly ground pepper, to taste
7. 1/4 tsp dried dill or 1 tsp fresh chopped
8. 1 tsp olive oil

9. Preparation

1. Cut cucumber in half and seed. Cut cucumber boat in half lengthwise and then halve each quarter. Cut crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces. Place in bowl, over a sieve, sprinkle salt on top, toss and set aside for at least 20 minutes.
2. Combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, pepper, and dill in a medium bowl. Stir in the oil briskly.
3. Drain the cucumbers, return them to the bowl, pour the yogurt mixture over and toss well.

Adapted from Eating Well Magazine,1990