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Greek Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Greek Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

5.2 from 6 reviews

This authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce is a creamy, refreshing dip made with Greek yogurt, fresh cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. Perfect as a side for grilled meats, pita bread, or as a cooling complement to spicy dishes, this tzatziki is easy to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Greek Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1 large cucumber, grated or finely diced (approximately 1 1/2 cups)
  • 34 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 small lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cucumber: Peel the cucumber if desired and grate or finely dice it into small pieces. Place the cucumber in a colander or fine-mesh sieve, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture. Then gently squeeze or press to remove as much liquid as possible.
  2. Mix the Yogurt Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with minced garlic, fresh dill (or dried dill), lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar if using, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Incorporate the Cucumber: Gently fold the drained cucumber into the yogurt mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the sauce without breaking down the cucumber too much.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Before serving, stir gently and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh dill or mint, if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamier, richer tzatziki; low-fat yogurt works well too.
  • Removing excess water from the cucumber is crucial to avoid a watery sauce.
  • Adjust garlic quantity according to your taste preference.
  • Fresh dill imparts the most authentic flavor, but dried dill is a good substitute.
  • Allowing the sauce to chill enhances the flavors and thickens the texture.
  • Tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Greek tzatziki sauce, tzatziki recipe, cucumber yogurt dip, Greek yogurt sauce, healthy dip, garlic yogurt sauce