This authentic Greek Tzatziki sauce recipe is refreshing and tangy, with simple ingredients including yogurt, cucumber, garlic. It's perfect as a dip, dressing or with souvlaki or gyros.
Tzatziki, the quintessential Greek yogurt and cucumber dip, is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.
Its cool, tangy flavor profile makes it a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes or serves as a refreshing dip on its own.
Made with simple ingredients like cucumber, yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Sure, you could pick up a tub of tzatziki at Publix, Costco, or Kroeger. But let me tell you that making your own is super easy and it will taste soooo much better and fresher. Plus you can control the ingredients and make it exactly to your taste, with no preservatives.
It's ready in no time and will add a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor to so many dishes. We dunk our raw veggies into it, spread it into sandwiches and of course, served with souvlaki or gyros.
Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving a healthy snack, Tzatziki is a go-to option that never disappoints.
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What is Tzatziki?
Tzatziki is a creamy and refreshing Greek dip or sauce that features prominently in Mediterranean cuisine.
Made primarily with strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs such as dill or mint, it boasts a delightful balance of tangy and savory flavors.
The cucumber lends a crisp texture and a hint of freshness, while the garlic infuses it with a subtle yet satisfying pungency.
Tzatziki is a versatile chilled condiment that complements a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats and seafood to falafel and vegetable platters.
Its origins can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was enjoyed as a cooling accompaniment to spicy dishes or as a dip for bread. Today, Tzatziki has gained popularity worldwide for its simplicity, healthfulness, and irresistible taste, making it a beloved addition to any table or meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, Tzatziki is a breeze to make, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
- Healthy and Fresh: Loaded with nutritious ingredients like cucumber and yogurt, Tzatziki offers a light and refreshing option that's guilt-free and satisfying.
- Versatile: Tzatziki can be enjoyed in various ways - as a dip for veggies or pita chips, a sauce for grilled meats or falafel, or a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
- Homemade Goodness: By making your own Tzatziki, you can customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences and avoid preservatives often found in store-bought versions.
Ingredients
You only need simple pantry ingredients for this recipe!
- Cucumber: Adds a crisp, refreshing taste and texture to the dip. If you don't have cucumber, zucchini can be a suitable substitute.
- Greek Yogurt: Provides a creamy base for the Tzatziki, offering a tangy flavor and smooth consistency. You can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt yields a thicker dip.
- Lemon Juice or Red Wine Vinegar: Adds a bright, citrusy flavor that balances the richness of the yogurt and complements the freshness of the cucumber.
- Garlic Clove: Infuses the dip with a pungent, aromatic flavor, enhancing its savory profile. Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: To add flavor and bring the dip together.
- Fresh Mint Leaves or Dill (Optional): Offers a hint of herbal freshness and complements the other flavors in the Tzatziki.
See the recipe card for quantities and method.
How to Make Tzatziki
Follow these step-by-step instructions, then scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.
Scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.
Peel the cucumber.
Slice it in half lengthways, then use a spoon to scrape out and discard the seeds.
Use a box grater to grate the cucumber.
Place the cucumber into a clean tea towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
Add the cucumber to a bowl and sprinkle with the salt. Set aside for 2 minutes.
Stir in the yogurt, lemon juice (or vinegar), garlic and mint leaves.
Serving Suggestions
- Dip for Fresh Vegetables: Serve Tzatziki as a dip alongside a colorful array of fresh vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a light and healthy snack or appetizer.
- Accompaniment to Grilled Meats: Pair Tzatziki with grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef. Spread it on kebabs, gyros, or souvlaki for a burst of flavor and creaminess that perfectly complements the smoky, savory notes of the grilled meat.
- Sauce for Falafel or Kofta: Drizzle Tzatziki over crispy falafel or tender kofta (spiced meatballs) for a delicious Middle Eastern-inspired meal. The coolness of the Tzatziki contrasts beautifully with the warmth and spice of the falafel or kofta.
- Spread for Sandwiches and Wraps: Use Tzatziki as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or pitas. Layer it on grilled chicken, turkey, or roasted vegetables for a creamy, tangy kick that elevates the flavor of your favorite sandwiches. Try it on Halloumi Souvlaki.
- Topping for Baked Potatoes: Dollop Tzatziki onto baked potatoes or sweet potatoes for a refreshing twist on a classic side dish. The creamy texture and zesty flavor of the Tzatziki add a delightful contrast to the fluffy potato interior. Or dollop it onto Hasselback Fingerling Potatoes.
- Accompaniment to Mediterranean Platters: Include Tzatziki as part of a Mediterranean-inspired platter featuring hummus, tabbouleh, olives, and stuffed grape leaves. Serve it alongside warm pita bread or crackers for a flavorful and satisfying spread.
- Garnish for Grilled Seafood: Use Tzatziki as a garnish for grilled seafood dishes such as grilled shrimp, salmon, or tilapia. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery flavors of the seafood.
- Base for Salad Dressing: Thin out Tzatziki with a little water or lemon juice to create a creamy salad dressing. Drizzle it over a Greek salad or use it as a dressing for a Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad for a burst of flavor and creaminess. We love it on this Chicken Shawarma Salad.
Variations
- Spicy Tzatziki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Herbed Tzatziki: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro to customize the flavor.
- Avocado Tzatziki: Blend in ripe avocado for a creamy twist and added nutritional benefits.
- Vegan Tzatziki: Substitute dairy-free yogurt for Greek yogurt to make a vegan-friendly version of this dip.
More Dip Recipes
Recipe Tips
- Drain Cucumber: After grating the cucumber, squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the Tzatziki from becoming too watery.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice, garlic, or salt to suit your preferences.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the Tzatziki to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Customize Texture: For a thicker dip, use a thicker Greek yogurt or strain regular yogurt using cheesecloth to remove excess liquid.
Storage
Store leftover Tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Stir well before serving as separation may occur. Avoid freezing as the texture may become watery upon thawing.
FAQs
Yes, but Greek yogurt will yield a more authentic thicker and creamier consistency.
It can be stored for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Yes, Tzatziki actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld, so making it ahead of time is recommended.
It's not recommended as freezing may alter the texture and result in a watery dip upon thawing.
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📖 Recipe
Tzatziki Sauce
Equipment
- Box grater
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 English cucumber medium
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove crushed
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves or dill, chopped
Instructions
- Peel the cucumber.
- Slice it in half lengthways, then use a spoon to scrape out and discard the seeds.
- Use a box grater to grate the cucumber.
- Place the cucumber into a clean tea towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Add the cucumber to a bowl and sprinkle with the salt. Set aside for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the yogurt, lemon juice (or vinegar), garlic and mint leaves.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Notes
- Drain Cucumber: After grating the cucumber, squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the Tzatziki from becoming too watery.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice, garlic, or salt to suit your preferences.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the Tzatziki to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Customize Texture: For a thicker dip, use a thicker Greek yogurt or strain regular yogurt using cheesecloth to remove excess liquid.
Nutrition
The nutritional information provided is approximate and can vary depending on several factors, so is not guaranteed to be accurate. Please see a registered dietician for special diet advice.
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