tzatziki

Tzatziki

Thick yogurt is combined with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill to create a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce. The cucumber adds fresh crunch, the garlic provides aromatic bite, and the lemon brightens the mixture, producing a refreshing, versatile condiment.

As the tzatziki rests, the flavors meld and the texture thickens slightly while remaining smooth and spreadable. Gentle mixing ensures even distribution of ingredients. The preparation emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients and careful balance to produce a cool, creamy, and flavorful tzatziki.

Print Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Sauces
Mediterranean
Servings: 4

Equipment

  • grater
  • mesh strainer

Ingredients

  • 1 cup finely shredded English cucumber, pressed and drained
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt, pressed and drained
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • 1 Tbsp. fresh dill or ½ Tbsp. dried dill
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • ½ tsp. lemon zest
  • ¼ tsp. Kosher salt
  • ground black pepper

Instructions 

  • Shred the English cucumber and press to squeeze out the excess water
  • If using as a dip, squeeze the yogurt in cheesecloth to remove excess liquid. You can leave the yogurt as it is if you’re going to use the tzatziki as dressing
  • Mix all ingredients in a bowl and let stand in the refrigerator for an hour.
  • Serve with wedges of warm pita