When the summer heat gets a bit too much, and you’re craving something light, cool, and refreshing, look no further than Mizeria. This simple Polish side dish is the epitome of summer freshness. With its crisp cucumbers and creamy yoghurt dressing, it’s the perfect complement to just about any meal, especially during those warm, lazy days. It’s as simple as it gets – you can make it with just two ingredients – and it’s high in protein. What’s not to love?

What Is Mizeria?

Mizeria, pronounced mee-ZER-ya, is a traditional Polish cucumber salad. The name itself is intriguing – some say it means “misery” in Polish, possibly because it’s such a humble dish. But don’t let the name fool you! This salad is anything but miserable. It’s a cooling, creamy delight, with a touch of tang from the yoghurt and a hint of sweetness from sugar. It’s said to have been a favourite of Queen Bona Sforza, who brought it to Poland from Italy in the 16th century. To me, it’s one of my favourite items in the Polish cuisine.

Why You’ll Love It

Mizeria is incredibly refreshing, making it a go-to dish when the weather is scorching. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and cool yoghurt is simply unbeatable in summer. And if you’re looking to boost your protein intake, you can easily swap regular yoghurt for a high-protein variety, making this not just a tasty side, but a healthy one too!

Let’s Get Cooking!

Here’s how you can whip up a bowl of Mizeria in no time. This recipe is super simple, with just a handful of ingredients, so you can enjoy it without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients For Mizeria:

• 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 200g of high-protein Greek yoghurt (or any thick yoghurt)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

• 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, finely chopped (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar

Traditionally, Mizeria is seasoned with dill, which happens to be the only herb I can’t stand, so personally, I always skip that. Sugar and lemon juice will enhance the flavour of you Mizeria, but they’re completely optional. Frankly, I usually stick to just cucumbers and yoghurt.

Instructions For Making Mizeria:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: You can start by peeling the cucumbers if you prefer a softer texture, though I recommend keeping the skin on for more crunch. Grate the cucumbers on a large-hole cheese grater. Place the cucumber shreds in a bowl.

2. Optional: Mix the Dressing: If you opted to use the additional seasonings, it’s time to mix them together. In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yoghurt, sugar, lemon juice (or vinegar), and most of the chopped dill (save a bit for garnish). Stir until the ingredients are well mixed. The yoghurt should be creamy and slightly tangy, with a hint of sweetness.

3. Assemble the Salad: Add the cucumbers to the yoghurt and toss to coat them evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Chill and Serve: For the best flavour, let the Mizeria chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavours time to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, you can sprinkle some dill over the top for garnish.

A Few Tips:

• Customise It: Mizeria is quite versatile. You can add a bit of minced garlic for extra zing or toss in some chopped spring onions for added crunch.
• Serving Suggestions: Mizeria pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a refreshing side to a hearty potato dish.
• Make It Creamier: If you like a richer dressing, you can mix in a spoonful of sour cream with the yoghurt.

The Protein Power-Up

If you opt for a high-protein Greek yoghurt, you’re not just making a tasty dish – you’re also sneaking in some extra protein. This makes Mizeria an excellent choice for those looking to balance a light meal with a bit of nutritional punch. It’s a win-win!

In Conclusion

Mizeria is the perfect dish to cool down with on a hot summer’s day. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, with a high-protein yoghurt, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavour. So, the next time you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying side dish, give Mizeria a try – you won’t be disappointed!

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