Description
Authentic tzatziki sauce is a fresh, creamy, and tangy Greek condiment made from full-fat Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. It’s quick to prepare, versatile as a dip or sauce, and perfect for Mediterranean dishes or casual snacking. This traditional recipe balances vibrant flavors and creamy textures for an irresistible result every time.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumber: Peel and finely grate the cucumber. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent a watery sauce and ensure a thicker consistency.
- Combine Yogurt and Lemon: In a medium bowl, mix the full-fat Greek yogurt with fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt. The lemon juice brightens the flavor while the salt enhances the creaminess.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Incorporate the freshly minced garlic and chopped fresh dill into the yogurt mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine the flavors evenly.
- Mix in the Cucumber: Fold the drained grated cucumber into the yogurt mixture until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice if needed.
- Finish with Olive Oil: Drizzle good quality extra virgin olive oil over the sauce and stir lightly. This adds rich smoothness that complements the tangy base perfectly.
Notes
- Drain the cucumber well to avoid a watery sauce.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best creamy texture and authentic taste.
- Fresh garlic is key for a clean, vibrant flavor—avoid pre-minced garlic.
- Chill the tzatziki sauce before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Fresh herbs such as dill or mint enhance the sauce compared to dried herbs.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving.
- Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture, but if necessary, freeze for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Serve tzatziki cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: tzatziki, Greek sauce, Greek yogurt dip, Mediterranean dip, cucumber sauce, fresh herb dip, vegetarian, gluten free
