Tzatziki Sauce (Greek Yogurt & Cucumber)
Tzatziki is Greece's most beloved sauce and a refreshing staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This cool, creamy sauce combines thick Greek yogurt with crisp cucumber, fragrant garlic, and fresh dill, creating a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and refreshing flavors. Traditional tzatziki has been served for centuries alongside grilled meats, used as a dip for pita bread, or dolloped onto gyros and souvlaki. What makes tzatziki so special is its incredible versatility and the way its cooling properties balance rich, heavily seasoned meats. The Greek yogurt provides a tangy, creamy base while cucumber adds fresh crunch and moisture. Garlic gives it that essential Mediterranean character, and fresh dill contributes a bright, slightly sweet herbal note. The key to perfect tzatziki is properly preparing the cucumber – grating and draining it removes excess moisture that would otherwise make the sauce watery. A touch of olive oil adds richness and helps carry all the flavors. This sauce is not only delicious but also healthy, packed with protein from the yogurt and naturally low in calories. It's perfect for summer grilling, as a healthy snack with vegetables, or as a sandwich spread. This authentic recipe delivers restaurant-quality tzatziki that's infinitely better than store-bought versions and takes just minutes to prepare.
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Ingredients
- •1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
- •1 medium cucumber (grated and drained)
- •2 cloves garlic (minced)
- •2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
- •1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- •1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- •1/2 teaspoon salt
- •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Grate the cucumber using a box grater. Place grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for preventing watery tzatziki.
- 2
In a medium mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt with the drained, grated cucumber.
- 3
Add minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- 4
Drizzle in olive oil and mix until fully incorporated.
- 5
Season with salt and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
- 6
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows flavors to meld and develop.
- 7
Before serving, give the tzatziki a good stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 8
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Drain off any liquid that separates before serving.
Tips & Variations
Pro Tips
- • Taste and adjust seasoning as you go
- • Use room temperature ingredients for best emulsification
- • Let flavors meld by refrigerating 30 minutes before serving
Storage
- • Refrigerator: Up to 1 week in airtight container
- • Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight)
Variations
Make it spicier with cayenne, tangier with extra lemon, or creamier with more mayo. Customize to your taste!
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