Throughout the Eastern Mediterranean, yogurt is a basic ingredient, the use of which dates back thousands of years. Fermented dairy has always been an important source of nourishment in this part of the world. Some of these soups, such as the Armenian Spas, contain cooked wheat berries and are served hot. Others, like Turkish and Greek tarator or taratori respectively, are meant to be refreshing meals on hot days. You can experiment with your own additions to this nourishing, cooling soup. It’s a great dinner party dish that can be made ahead and served chilled, garnished elegantly with whatever you like.
Add diced cucumber, minced garlic, walnuts, and dill and stir gently to combine. Season to taste with salt. Swirl in about 2 – 4 tablespoons of olive oil, as desired. Chill the soup, covered, for 3 hours. Taste and adjust seasoning and consistency with additional salt and/or water, as desired, just before serving.