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Creamy Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

Featured in Perfect Party Bites and Snack Recipes.

Quick and simple tzatziki featuring Greek yogurt, chilled cucumber, dill, and garlic. Ready in half an hour to serve as a dip or side sauce.
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Mena
Updated on Mon, 10 Mar 2025 18:09:36 GMT
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There's something magical about authentic Greek tzatziki sauce. The combination of cool cucumber, creamy yogurt, and aromatic garlic creates a versatile condiment that enhances any Mediterranean meal. Through years of testing and refinement, this recipe captures the essence of traditional taverna-style tzatziki.

The key to exceptional tzatziki lies in the preparation method. Taking time to properly strain the cucumber and yogurt results in a thick, luxurious sauce with concentrated flavors.

Key Components

  • Yogurt - Full-fat Greek yogurt provides the ideal rich base
  • Cucumber - English cucumbers offer the best texture and fewer seeds
  • Garlic - Fresh cloves deliver clean, sharp flavor
  • Dill - Fresh herbs bring brightness and authenticity
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Adds richness and smooth mouthfeel
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Essential Preparation Steps

1.
Prepare the cucumber by grating and salting it, then strain thoroughly in a colander lined with cheesecloth. Press out all excess moisture.
2.
Strain the yogurt through fine cheesecloth for 30 minutes to achieve proper thickness.
3.
Create a smooth garlic paste using salt and the flat side of a knife for even distribution.

Professional Insights

Key techniques for best results:
* Leave cucumber skin on for texture and color
* Incorporate finely chopped dill stems
* Add a small amount of white vinegar for brightness

Serving Suggestions

Classic pairings include:
* Fresh pita bread or za'atar flatbread
* Grilled Mediterranean vegetables
* Sandwich and wrap spreads

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Storage Guidelines

Proper storage methods:
* Use glass containers to maintain flavor
* Stir before serving if separation occurs
* Consume within 4 days for best quality

Recipe Variations

Optional flavor enhancements:
* Fresh mint leaves for added brightness
* Ground sumac for citrus notes
* Aleppo pepper for mild heat

Problem Solving

Common issues and solutions:
* For thin sauce, increase straining time or add more yogurt
* Balance strong garlic with additional citrus and salt
* Remove excess moisture from cucumber with additional straining

Recipe Summary

Traditional tzatziki embodies Mediterranean cuisine's fresh, simple approach. When prepared with attention to detail and quality ingredients, it elevates any dish it accompanies.

Each batch can be customized to personal taste while maintaining authentic character. The key lies in proper ingredient preparation and allowing time for flavors to develop fully.

Greek Yogurt Tzatziki

A smooth and tangy yogurt-based dip with garlic, cucumber, and herbs. Pairs perfectly with veggies, pita, or meats.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
10 Minutes
By: Mena


Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Greek

Yield: 8 Servings (2 cups)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 cups of plain Greek yogurt
02 Grate 1 large cucumber and squeeze out the liquid (yields about 1½ cups)
03 3 to 4 minced garlic cloves
04 Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill finely
05 Freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 tablespoons
06 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
07 Optional: 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
08 Half a teaspoon of salt
09 A quarter teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 01

You can peel the cucumber if you want. Grate it, sprinkle some salt over it, and leave it for 10 to 15 minutes so it can release water. Then, squeeze out the extra moisture.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, toss together the yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar (if you're adding it), salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything until smooth.

Step 03

Take that drained cucumber and gently fold it into the yogurt mixture until it's spread out evenly.

Step 04

Cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge for at least half an hour so the flavors can come together.

Step 05

Give the mixture a light stir, taste to see if seasoning needs adjusting, and serve it cold.

Notes

  1. You can prepare it in advance and keep it in the fridge.
  2. Getting all the liquid out of the cucumber is a must for the right consistency.
  3. Works great as a dip or a tasty sauce!

Tools You'll Need

  • Grater
  • A mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring tools for cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • This recipe uses yogurt, so it's not dairy-free.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 60
  • Total Fat: 4 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 3 g
  • Protein: 4 g