Tzatziki sauce is a cool and creamy Greek classic made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s the perfect side dish to add a refreshing touch to your grilled meats or vegetables. Whether you’re using it as a dip, a dressing, or a topping, this simple sauce brings a burst of flavor with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this Tzatziki sauce because it’s incredibly easy to make, with just a few fresh ingredients. The Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture, while the grated cucumber offers a crisp, refreshing contrast. Garlic and fresh dill round out the flavor profile, creating a perfect balance of tangy and savory. It’s light, healthy, and versatile enough to serve with a variety of dishes, making it a must-have recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Grate the cucumber and squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Stir everything together until smooth and well combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill the tzatziki in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
Spicy Tzatziki: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of fresh chili for some heat.
Minty Tzatziki: For a fresh twist, substitute the dill with fresh mint.
Vegan Tzatziki: Swap out the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond-based yogurt for a vegan version.
Cucumber-Free Tzatziki: If you’re not a fan of cucumber, you can replace it with finely chopped avocado for a creamy and smooth alternative.
Storage/Reheating
This Tzatziki sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I recommend not freezing it, as the yogurt may separate upon thawing. For best flavor, let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, but it will keep tasting fresh for a few days when stored properly.
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FAQs
How long does tzatziki sauce last in the fridge?
Tzatziki sauce will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
While you can use regular yogurt, Greek yogurt provides a thicker, creamier texture, which is ideal for tzatziki sauce.
Can I make tzatziki ahead of time?
Yes, I actually recommend making tzatziki ahead of time, as it allows the flavors to meld together and improves the taste.
Is tzatziki sauce gluten-free?
Yes, tzatziki sauce is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I serve tzatziki sauce with?
Tzatziki is perfect as a dip for pita bread, veggies, or grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef. It’s also great as a topping for gyros or wraps.
Conclusion
This Tzatziki sauce is a simple, flavorful addition to any meal. Its fresh ingredients and creamy texture make it a delightful complement to many dishes. Whether you’re using it as a dip, dressing, or topping, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
📖 Recipe:
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Tzatziki Sauce
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tzatziki sauce is a creamy, refreshing Greek sauce made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s perfect as a dip, dressing, or topping for grilled meats and vegetables. Easy to make and versatile, this homemade tzatziki sauce will elevate any meal.
Ingredients
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grate the cucumber and squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean towel or cheesecloth.
- In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Stir everything together until smooth and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the tzatziki in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Notes
For added spice, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh chili slices.
To make the sauce even more refreshing, replace the dill with fresh mint for a minty variation.
For a vegan version, swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free alternatives such as coconut or almond-based yogurt.
If you’re not a fan of cucumber, consider substituting it with finely chopped avocado for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce, Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 70 kcal
