Description
Cool, creamy, and loaded with fresh cucumber, garlic, and dill, this Easy Authentic Tzatziki Sauce is the kind of simple recipe that instantly makes everyday meals feel special. Thick Greek yogurt keeps it rich and satisfying while still feeling light enough for a healthy snack or veggie dip. Spoon it over grilled chicken or fish for easy dinner ideas, tuck it into wraps and gyros, or set it out with pita and veggies whenever you need quick appetizers and fun food ideas. This is an easy recipe you’ll make again and again for lunches, picnics, and relaxed weeknight dinner ideas.
Ingredients
2 cups plain full-fat Greek yogurt
1 large English cucumber, grated (about 1 1/2 cups packed)
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
1. Grate the cucumber on the large holes of a box grater. Sprinkle lightly with a pinch of salt and place in a fine-mesh strainer or clean kitchen towel. Let sit for about 10 minutes, then squeeze very firmly to remove as much liquid as possible.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, white wine vinegar (if using), and extra-virgin olive oil until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold the well-drained cucumber, chopped dill, and chopped mint into the yogurt mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined and speckled with herbs.
4. Season with the 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and black pepper, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a little more salt or lemon juice if you like a brighter flavor.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can meld and the sauce can thicken slightly.
6. Give the sauce a quick stir before serving. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with additional dill, if desired. Serve chilled with veggies, pita, or your favorite grilled meats.
Notes
For the thickest, creamiest tzatziki, don’t skip draining and squeezing the cucumber—too much leftover moisture is the number one reason the sauce turns thin and watery.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 160
- Fat: 5
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 3
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 10