Raita Dip

For occasions that call for a quick, healthy party dip, raita is my go-to. Fresh and full of flavor, it’s a crowd pleaser that goes with anything you like to dip. I love to surround a bowl of raita with fresh veggies, gluten-free crackers, cheeses, breadsticks and sourdough bread. Cilantro brings a serving of leafy greens and a pop of color to raita, not to mention micronutrients, antioxidants and other medicinal compounds. Cilantro’s superpower is its ability to help rid the body of heavy metals. Studies have shown it binds the metals, loosening them from the body’s tissue and facilitating their elimination. Cilantro has a natural calming effect and can help improve sleep quality. It also lowers blood sugar and protects the body from cardiovascular disease and urinary tract infections. With all those benefits, give it a try in other dips like guacamole and salsa!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup 2% Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup cucumbers, peeled, seeded and chopped (about ½ an English cucumber)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, leaves only
• 1 small chili, serrano or jalapeno, seeded and roughly chopped
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 2 garlic cloves peeled, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger peeled, chopped
• ½ teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Method:

1. Place the cilantro, chili, lime zest and juice, garlic, ginger and spices in a food processor or blender. Process until finely chopped.

2. Add the yogurt, cucumbers and salt.  Pulse until fully blended.  Adjust taste.