Tzatziki

Peel the cucumber and cut it in half lengthwise, then cut crosswise into slices 1/4 inch thick. Place the cucumber in a colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Set the colander over a bowl and let drain in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Squeeze the cucumber slices a handful at a time to extract any remaining moisture, then spread on paper towels and pat dry. Transfer the cucumber to a bowl. On a cutting board, sprinkle the 1 tsp. salt over the garlic, using 1 or 2 cloves, to taste. Using a heavy knife, alternately chop the garlic and press with the side of the blade until it is a lumpy paste, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic paste to the cucumber and, using a fork, toss to mix. Add the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice and vinegar and stir until well combined. Season with white pepper. Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with the mint and serve immediately. Serves 6 to 8. Adapted from Williams-Sonoma <i>Essentials of Mediterranean Cooking,</i> by Charity Ferreira, Dana Jacobi &amp; Carolyn Miller (Oxmoor House, 2008).