Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing and creamy Greek dip made with cucumber, garlic, and yogurt. It’s perfect for serving with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a cool condiment on sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 to 2 teaspoons kosher salt (start with one and add more to taste)
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (minced)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the cucumber by cutting off the ends. Slice it in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Grate the cucumber and toss it with 1 to 2 teaspoons kosher salt in a bowl. Set the salted grated cucumber in a strainer over a bowl or sink and let it stand for at least 15 minutes. Afterward, squeeze out as much liquid as possible and discard it. You should have about 1 cup of grated cucumber.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the drained grated cucumber with the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Mix thoroughly, then taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, lemon juice, or dill if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, strain the yogurt before mixing to remove excess whey.
- Add a splash of olive oil for a richer flavor.
- Use fresh mint instead of dill for a different herbal twist.
Storage
Store tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. It can be served chilled or at room temperature, but avoid leaving it out for long periods.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Regular yogurt can be used, but it’s best to strain it through a cheesecloth to remove excess liquid for a thicker consistency similar to Greek yogurt.
How do I prevent the cucumber from making the sauce watery?
Salting the grated cucumber and letting it drain before mixing helps remove excess moisture and keeps the sauce from becoming watery.
PrintTzatziki Sauce Recipe
Tzatziki Sauce is a classic Greek condiment made with creamy Greek yogurt, refreshing cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill. This cool and tangy sauce is perfect as a dip, salad dressing, or accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups (serves 6-8) 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Cucumber
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 to 2 teaspoons kosher salt (start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste)
For the Sauce
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, minced
Instructions
- Prepare Cucumber: Cut off both ends of the cucumber. Slice it in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds using a spoon. Grate the remaining cucumber flesh and toss it with 1 to 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in a bowl. Place the salted grated cucumber in a strainer set over a bowl or the sink, and allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes. After resting, firmly squeeze out as much liquid as possible and discard the excess moisture. You should have approximately 1 cup of grated cucumber ready for the sauce.
- Mix Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained grated cucumber with the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and minced fresh dill. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, lemon juice, or dill as desired.
Notes
- Removing the cucumber seeds helps prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
- Letting the grated cucumber drain and squeezing out excess liquid is key to a thick, creamy tzatziki.
- Use fresh dill for the best flavor; dried dill can be substituted but use less as it is more concentrated.
- This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Tzatziki pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, vegetables, pita bread, or as a salad dressing.
Keywords: Tzatziki, Greek sauce, cucumber yogurt sauce, garlic dill sauce, Mediterranean dip, no-cook sauce
