Pistachio and Yogurt Dip is a creamy, nutty, and refreshing appetizer inspired by Turkish cuisine. Made with thick Turkish yogurt and the rich flavor of pistachios, this dip is perfect for pairing with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or as a topping for grilled meats. Its simple preparation and vibrant taste make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups thick Turkish yogurt (or strained Greek yogurt)
- 1/2 cup (75g) shelled unsalted pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried mint
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: A pinch of paprika or sumac for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Yogurt Base: In a medium bowl, combine the Turkish yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried mint, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Add Pistachios: Fold in the finely chopped pistachios, reserving a small handful for garnish. Stir gently to ensure the pistachios are evenly distributed.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning with more salt, lemon juice, or garlic as needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with the reserved chopped pistachios. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh dill or parsley and a pinch of paprika or sumac.
- Serve: Serve the pistachio and yogurt dip with fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers), warm pita bread, crackers, or alongside grilled meats or kebabs.
Things to Consider
- Yogurt Consistency: Turkish yogurt is naturally thick and creamy. If using regular yogurt, strain it through a cheesecloth or fine sieve for at least 1 hour to achieve the desired thickness.
- Pistachio Texture: For a smoother dip, grind the pistachios finely. For more texture, chop them coarsely or leave some larger pieces.
Tips
- Make Ahead: This dip can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop as it chills.
- Customization: Add a drizzle of honey for a hint of sweetness, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Serving Idea: Use this dip as a sandwich spread or a topping for roasted vegetables for a versatile and flavorful addition.
This Pistachio and Yogurt Dip is a creamy and flavorful dish that brings together the nuttiness of pistachios and the tang of Turkish yogurt. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, it’s sure to become a favorite. Afiyet olsun!