Simple Tzatziki

Tzatziki sauce is a creamy, refreshing, and incredibly versatile condiment that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, gyros, pita bread, and even roasted vegetables. Made with Greek yogurt, fresh cucumber, and garlic, this traditional Greek dip is both nutritious and delicious.

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Cuisine: Greek
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8

Why You’ll Love Making It

  • Cool and Refreshing – A creamy, tangy dip packed with fresh cucumber and herbs, perfect for hot days or as a light side.
  • Healthy and High-Protein – Made with Greek yogurt, it’s naturally low in fat and high in protein, making it a nutritious alternative to store-bought dips.
  • Quick and Easy – Just mix the ingredients and let them chill! No cooking required.
  • Versatile – Use it as a dip, sauce, spread, or even a dressing for salads.
  • Great for Meal Prep – Lasts for days in the fridge, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fat-free plain Greek-style yogurt – Thick and tangy, this yogurt forms the creamy base of tzatziki. Full-fat yogurt can be used for a richer texture.
  • ½ cucumber, finely chopped – Adds a fresh, cooling element. For best results, use an English cucumber or deseed a regular cucumber to reduce excess moisture.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Provides a fresh, herbal note. Traditional Greek tzatziki often includes dill or mint, which can be used instead.
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed – Adds a bold, slightly spicy flavor. Use fresh garlic for the best taste.
  • Salt to taste – Enhances the flavors and balances the tanginess of the yogurt. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust as needed.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber

If using a regular cucumber, peel it and remove the seeds. Finely chop it, then place the pieces in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Squeeze gently to remove excess water—this helps keep the tzatziki thick and creamy.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, finely chopped cucumber, parsley, crushed garlic, and a small pinch of salt. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Let the Flavors Develop

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the garlic and herbs to infuse into the yogurt, creating a more flavorful dip.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

After chilling, stir the tzatziki well and taste it. If needed, add more salt or a splash of lemon juice for brightness. If the dip is too thick, a small drizzle of olive oil can help smooth it out.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread, raw vegetables, or falafel. It also pairs wonderfully as a sauce for grilled meats, gyros, or roasted vegetables.

FAQs

How long does homemade tzatziki last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, tzatziki will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The cucumber may release some water over time, so just give it a quick stir before serving.

Can I make tzatziki without Greek yogurt?
Yes! You can substitute regular plain yogurt for a thinner consistency or even use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version. If using regular yogurt, strain it through a cheesecloth to achieve a thicker texture.

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