Cool as a cucumber on a hot summer day..

Today at work was our Farmers Market check distribution day. Ever year the program gives our families extra money in the summer time to buy fruits and veggies at a Farmers Market. This program is great; nutrition-wise it gets our kids and families eating more fruits and veggies, and local wise it is supporting the farmers in Massachusetts who work so hard to produce beautiful fruits and veggies for us.

The day was pretty stressful; we had a line out the door, which was expected, although the downpour around 4:30 was not expected (or prepared for). Our poor families were waiting out there, strollers and all, for there special Farmers Market checks. I have to say, the staff and families handled it pretty well, we were all as cool as cucumbers.

Thinking about a cucumber and myself being stress free and cool gave me an idea for dinner tonight. Greek Tzatziki (Cucumber Yogurt Dip). This is a dip that is very creamy and tangy, it is flavored with garlic and perfect for dipping veggies, pita chips and even on top of grilled meats or chicken. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients like Greek low fat yogurt, cucumber, garlic cloves, salt and pepper, and sometimes people put dill or another herb of choice.

Greek Tzatziki Dip

3 cups Greek low fat yogurt
juice of one lemon
1 garlic clove, finely chopped or pressed
2 cucumbers, peeled, seeded and diced

1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or desired herb, mint is another traditional choice)
1 tbsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

Add chopped cucumber to the food processor and pulse until pureed. Strain over a small bowl to remove excess juices (save juice!). In a mixing bowl combine cucumbers, yogurt, garlic, salt pepper and dill, whisk together until smooth. Chill and serve as desired.

Greek Tzatziki (Cucumber Yogurt Dip) with homemade pita chips

Cool Cucumber Juice..made with cucumber liquid. Simply mix cucumber juice,1 or 2 teaspoons agave nectar or honey (to desired sweetness) juice of half a lime and serve over ice...yummy