Smacked Cucumber with Tzatziki (Print Version)

Herby cucumber salad with creamy vegan tzatziki and zesty mustard-lemon dressing.

# Ingredients:

→ Fresh Produce

01 - 2 medium cucumbers
02 - 1 handful fresh parsley, finely chopped
03 - 1 large handful fresh dill
04 - 2 spring onions, sliced
05 - 1 garlic clove, peeled and grated
06 - 1 lemon, juice only

→ Condiments & Dairy Alternatives

07 - 310 g vegan yoghurt
08 - 4 tablespoons olive oil
09 - 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard
10 - 1 teaspoon maple syrup
11 - Salt
12 - Black pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Remove the ends from the cucumbers. Using a rolling pin, lightly smack the cucumbers until they are softened and start to split, taking care not to crush into small fragments.
02 - Break the smacked cucumber into approximately 3 cm pieces by hand and transfer to a colander set over a mixing bowl. Season with a pinch of salt, toss, and set aside for 15 minutes to allow excess liquid to drain.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons olive oil, wholegrain mustard, juice of half the lemon, maple syrup, and pinches of salt and black pepper until emulsified. Reserve for finishing.
04 - In a large bowl, add the vegan yoghurt. Pour in the liquid drained from the cucumbers. Add grated garlic, juice from the remaining half lemon, finely chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Finely chop most of the dill, reserving some sprigs for garnish, and mix into the yoghurt. Stir thoroughly to combine.
05 - Spread the prepared tzatziki onto a large serving plate. Arrange the smacked cucumber on top, followed by spring onions and reserved dill sprigs. Drizzle the dressing over the top before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Smashing the cucumber before salting enhances absorption of flavours and allows for more texture.