Name: Classic Tzatziki Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%); 1 small cucumber (seedless or English), finely grated; 1 clove garlic, minced or grated; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill); Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Imagine a warm summer evening in Greece, where every meal begins with fresh bread and a side of creamy, tangy Tzatziki Sauce. This refreshing condiment, made with yogurt, cucumber, and garlic, is a cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re dipping pita, dolloping it over grilled meat, or simply enjoying it as a spread, Classic Tzatziki Sauce brings a burst of flavor to any dish.

In this article, we’ll guide you through making the perfect Tzatziki sauce at home. It’s simple, quick, and sure to elevate your meals. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 80
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, this recipe requires minimal effort.
Healthy and Light: Made with Greek yogurt, it’s packed with protein and probiotics.
Versatile: Use it as a dip, spread, or side sauce for various dishes.
Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to match your taste preferences.
Authentic Flavors: Bring a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
1 small cucumber (seedless or English), finely grated
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Ingredients and Substitutions

1. Greek Yogurt

The base of Tzatziki, Greek yogurt provides creaminess and a tangy flavor. You can use full-fat for a richer taste or 2% for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, substitute with coconut yogurt.

2. Cucumber

Grated cucumber adds freshness and texture. Seedless cucumbers work best, but regular cucumbers are fine if you remove the seeds.

3. Garlic

Fresh garlic is key for authentic flavor. Adjust the amount based on your garlic tolerance!

4. Lemon Juice

Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the sauce. Lime juice can work in a pinch.

5. Dill

Fresh dill adds a signature herby flavor. If unavailable, dried dill works too. Parsley or mint can be used for a twist.

How to Make Classic Tzatziki Sauce (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Grate and Prep the Cucumber

Start by grating a seedless cucumber using the small side of a box grater. Once grated, wrap the cucumber shreds in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Season and Adjust

Taste your mixture and add salt and black pepper as needed. You can also adjust the lemon juice or dill for your preferred tanginess and herbal notes.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Serve chilled.

Expert Tips for Success

Squeeze That Cucumber
Excess water from the cucumber can make your sauce runny, so don’t skip this step.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and dill make a big difference in flavor.
Chill Time is Key
Letting the sauce rest in the fridge allows the flavors to develop fully.
Balance the Garlic
If you’re not a fan of strong garlic flavor, roast the garlic first or use less.

Variations and Customizations

Spicy Tzatziki
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Minty Twist
Replace dill with fresh mint for a refreshing variation.
Vegan Tzatziki
Use coconut or almond-based yogurt for a dairy-free version.
Avocado Tzatziki
Blend in half an avocado for an extra creamy, rich texture.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage

Store your Tzatziki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Tzatziki is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. If separation occurs, simply stir it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Dip
Serve with pita bread, fresh veggies, or crackers for a light snack.
Spread
Use it as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or burgers.
Side Sauce
Pair it with grilled meats, falafel, or roasted vegetables.
Topping
Add a dollop on top of rice bowls, baked potatoes, or salads.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Making it a day in advance enhances the flavors as they have more time to meld together.

Q: What if my Tzatziki is too thick?

A: If it’s too thick, add a small splash of olive oil or lemon juice to thin it out.

Q: Can I freeze Tzatziki sauce?

A: Freezing is not recommended, as the yogurt and cucumber may separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Hummus Dip
A creamy, protein-packed Mediterranean dip made from chickpeas.
Baba Ganoush
A smoky eggplant dip that pairs beautifully with Tzatziki.
Garlic Herb Yogurt Sauce
A simpler version with a focus on garlic and herbs.

Conclusion

Making Classic Tzatziki Sauce at home is easier than you think. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a versatile, flavorful condiment that complements countless dishes. Whether you’re hosting a Mediterranean-themed dinner or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, Tzatziki is a must-have in your culinary repertoire.

Try this recipe today, and let the creamy, tangy magic of Tzatziki sauce transform your table. Bon appétit!