📖 Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly. Hull them (remove the green tops) and slice them into thin, even pieces. Set aside about a quarter of the sliced strawberries for garnish.
2. Make the Strawberry Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine three-quarters of the sliced strawberries with the agave nectar (or honey/maple syrup) and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Gently mash the strawberries with a fork or potato masher until they release their juices and form a slightly chunky sauce. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This is a crucial step; don't skip it!
3. Prepare the Mint Tzatziki: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, finely chopped fresh mint, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out any excess liquid from the cucumber before adding it to the yogurt), a clove of minced garlic (optional), the remaining teaspoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the tzatziki has a consistent green hue.
4. Layer the Parfaits: Now comes the fun part – assembling the parfaits! Take your tall glasses or parfait cups and begin layering the ingredients. Start with a generous spoonful of the strawberry sauce at the bottom of each glass.
5. Add Granola: Next, sprinkle a layer of your favorite granola over the strawberry sauce. The granola adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the coolness of the tzatziki. Don't skimp on this layer!
6. Add Mint Tzatziki: Carefully spoon a layer of the mint tzatziki over the granola. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread it out evenly. The tzatziki adds a creamy, tangy, and refreshing element to the parfait.
7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process – strawberry sauce, granola, and mint tzatziki – until you reach the top of the glasses. Aim for at least two to three layers of each ingredient, depending on the size of your glasses.
8. Garnish: Finish the parfaits by garnishing the top with the reserved sliced strawberries and a few fresh mint leaves. This adds a pop of color and visual appeal, making the parfaits even more irresistible. A light sprinkle of granola on top is also a nice touch.
9. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor and texture, chill the assembled parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even further and the tzatziki to firm up slightly. However, if you're impatient (like me sometimes!), you can certainly enjoy them immediately.