Cacik (Turkish Cucumber Yogurt Sauce)
Cacik, pronounced "ja-jick", is a trendy and traditional Turkish yogurt sauce that has been enjoyed for generations. This creamy and refreshing dip not only tastes great but is also very easy to make.
I made this cucumber yogurt sauce a few times a week while living in Turkey, especially when I had guests.
It's a delightful, uncomplicated side dish that appeals to everybody.
Here are the ingredients you'll need.
Cacik Ingredients
- Cucumbers: Use thin-skinned Persian cucumbers. No need to peek or remove any seeds. You can use American cucumbers, but peel the skin and discard the seeds.
- Yogurt: Full-fat, creamy yogurt is a must for a velvety mouthfeel.
- Herbs: Use fresh mint and dried oregano for a fresh yet earthy flavor.
- Garlic: This spice will add a rich aroma and flavor.
- Lemon: You will need the zest and the juice.
I am so excited to share this recipe with you guys. The combination of cool yogurt, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both satisfying and delicious. You are going to love it.
How to Make Cacik
My go-to method for making perfect cacik every time is to first start with a flavorful yogurt base.
- Add all of the ingredients to the bowl, exclude the cucumbers.
- Reserve some of the chopped cucumber to garnish on top.
- Stir all of the ingredients together. Please give it a taste. Add more salt or lemon, if needed.
- Lastly, stir in the cucumbers. Garnish with some reserved chopped cucumbers, fresh mint, or a sprinkle of earthy oregano and a drizzle of olive oil.
A quick tip: Prepare cacik ahead of time. Once made, please keep it in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Garnish with chopped cucumbers, fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
More Mediterranean Recipes
- Smoky Muhammara with Pomegranate & Mint
- Zesty Tahini Sauce with Garlic & Herbs
- Beet Tzatziki Sauce
- Goat's Milk Tzatziki Sauce
- Green Zhoug Recipe (spicy cilantro sauce)
How to Serve
Serve Cacik with freshly baked pita bread for a delicious and refreshing appetizer or grilled vegetables, kabobs, grilled chicken, and much more.
PrintCacik -Turkish Cucumber Yogurt Sauce Recipe
Turkish-style cacik made with creamy yogurt, crunchy cucumbers, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs. Serve as a side dish to all of your Mediterranean meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 People 1x
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Side Dish
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk yogurt
- 1 lemon, zest and juice ((about 2 teaspoons zest and ¼ cup lemon juice))
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped mint
- ¾ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 3 Persian cucumbers, small dice
- diced cucumber and olive oil for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, add the yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, mint, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients to create a creamy, seasoned yogurt base.
- Add the diced cucumbers. Fold and mix until thoroughly combined.
- Garnish with chopped cucumber, fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve as a side dish or sauce with all of your Mediterranean meals.
Great recipe!