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Delicious Tzatziki Sauce

Featured in Feel-Good Food That Tastes Amazing.

Creamy tzatziki made at home using Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, and crisp cucumber. Chill for 30 minutes and use as a dip or sauce!
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Rose
Updated on Fri, 07 Mar 2025 01:07:45 GMT
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Authentic Greek tzatziki sauce is a marvel of simplicity and flavor. This creamy yogurt-based dish combines cooling cucumber with aromatic herbs and garlic to create a versatile Mediterranean staple. Through careful testing and refinement, this recipe achieves the ideal balance of traditional ingredients.

The key to exceptional tzatziki lies in proper technique and ingredient preparation. Taking time to properly drain the cucumber and strain the yogurt results in a superior texture and consistency.

Key Components

  • Greek Yogurt - Full-fat variety provides essential richness and body
  • English Cucumber - Less seedy and watery than standard varieties
  • Fresh Garlic - Raw cloves deliver bright, authentic flavor
  • Fresh Dill - Traditional herb that provides characteristic taste
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Adds smooth richness and finish
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Creamy Greek Tzatziki Sauce Recipe | tastybysophie.com

Preparation Method

1.
Proper cucumber preparation prevents excess moisture. Grate cucumber and salt lightly, then drain in a colander. Press firmly in cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel to remove liquid.
2.
Strain yogurt through fine mesh or cheesecloth for 30 minutes to achieve thick consistency. This step ensures proper texture.
3.
Create a smooth garlic paste using kosher salt and the side of a knife. This technique distributes flavor evenly throughout the sauce.

Technical Tips

Essential preparation notes:
* English cucumber skin adds color and texture - no peeling needed
* Include finely minced dill stems for enhanced flavor
* Small amount of white vinegar brightens overall taste

Serving Suggestions

Classic accompaniments:
* Warm pita bread or za'atar-seasoned flatbread
* Grilled Mediterranean vegetables
* Fresh vegetable crudités

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Greek Tzatziki Sauce Recipe | tastybysophie.com

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage methods:
* Use glass containers rather than plastic
* Stir before serving if separation occurs
* Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated

Recipe Variations

Optional modifications:
* Add fresh mint for brightness
* Incorporate ground sumac for citrus notes
* Include Aleppo pepper for mild heat

Common Solutions

Addressing texture issues:
* For thin consistency - strain yogurt longer or add more strained yogurt
* Excessive garlic - balance with additional lemon juice and salt
* Watery texture - drain cucumber mixture further

Summary

Tzatziki exemplifies Mediterranean cuisine's elegant simplicity. The combination of carefully prepared ingredients creates a versatile sauce suitable for many applications.

Success relies on proper technique and attention to detail. Each batch can be customized while maintaining traditional character.

Greek Yogurt Dip

Smooth and tangy yogurt with crisp cucumber, garlic, and herbs. Perfect with roasted meats, crunchy veggies, or warm pita bread.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
10 Minutes

Category: Fresh & Healthy

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Greek

Yield: 8 Servings (2 cups)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 ½ teaspoon salt
02 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
03 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
04 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
05 1 teaspoon white vinegar (optional)
06 ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
07 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
08 1 large cucumber, drained and grated (equals about 1½ cups)
09 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped up

Instructions

Step 01

You can peel the cucumber if you'd like, then shred it and toss it with a pinch of salt. Leave it for 10-15 minutes to sweat out the moisture, then squeeze out any leftover liquid.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, stir together the yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar (if you'd like), salt, and pepper. Keep mixing until it's nice and smooth.

Step 03

Take the cucumber you drained earlier and gently stir it into the yogurt mixture. Keep mixing until it's all mixed well.

Step 04

Cover up the mixture and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors really come together.

Step 05

Give the tzatziki a gentle mix, tweak the seasoning if it needs it, and enjoy it chilled.

Notes

  1. Can be prepped in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  2. Removing extra water from the cucumber is key for getting the perfect texture.
  3. Works great as a dip or even as a topping sauce.

Tools You'll Need

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Grater

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (made with yogurt)

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