Tzatziki Recipe
Creamy, refreshing, and the perfect Mediterranean side
Tzatziki is a classic yogurt-based dressing widely enjoyed across Greece and Turkey. Cool, creamy, and bursting with fresh cucumber and garlic, it’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread. While it’s easy to find ready-made in stores, nothing beats the fresh flavor of homemade tzatziki — and it comes together in under 20 minutes!
What Makes Tzatziki So Special?
Tzatziki is simple yet incredibly versatile. It balances rich, hearty dishes with its cool and tangy freshness and works beautifully as a dip, sauce, or side salad. While traditionally made with thick, creamy Greek yogurt, you can also substitute sour cream for a milder, richer flavor.
With just a handful of ingredients, you get a refreshing and healthy addition to almost any meal.
Ingredient Breakdown: How Each One Works Its Magic
- Cucumber
Adds crisp freshness and a cooling effect. Salting and draining the cucumber prevents the tzatziki from becoming watery. - Salt
Draws out moisture from the cucumber and enhances overall flavor. - Garlic
Brings a bold, aromatic bite that defines the signature taste of tzatziki. - Greek yogurt
The creamy base that makes the sauce rich and tangy. Use full-fat for the best texture. - Freshly ground pepper
Adds a subtle heat and rounds out the flavors.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber: Grate and salt the cucumber, then store in the fridge after draining.
- Make the tzatziki ahead: Mix everything together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
Storing
Fridge
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving, as some liquid separation is natural.
Freezing
- Not recommended, as the texture will change when thawed.
Time and Yield
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Resting time: 5–10 minutes for draining cucumber
- Total time: Under 20 minutes
- Yields: About 4 servings as a side or dip
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber:
Grate the cucumber using a coarse grater. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
Squeeze the cucumber gently in your hands or through a clean kitchen towel to remove as much liquid as possible. - Mix the tzatziki:
In a bowl, combine the drained cucumber with finely chopped garlic and Greek yogurt. Stir well.
Season with freshly ground pepper to taste. - Chill and serve:
Let the tzatziki rest in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to develop flavor. Serve chilled as a dip, sauce, or side.
Ingredients (with Measurements)
4 portions/servings
- 1.5 cucumbers
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 3 dl Greek yogurt (about 1¼ cups)
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground pepper
Optional Variations
- Milder Flavor: Substitute part or all of the yogurt with sour cream for a creamier, milder taste.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in a handful of finely chopped dill or mint for an herby twist.
- Citrus Brightness: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra zing.
Nutritional Info
per portion/serving
Calories: 64 kcal Fat: 2 g Protein: 6 g Carbohydrates: 6 g
Tzatziki
Ingredients
- 1.5 cucumbers
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 1¼ cups Greek yogurt (3 dl)
- 0.5 tsp freshly ground pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber: Grate the cucumber using a coarse grater. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze the cucumber gently in your hands or through a clean kitchen towel to remove as much liquid as possible.
- Mix the tzatziki: In a bowl, combine the drained cucumber with finely chopped garlic and Greek yogurt. Stir well. Season with freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Chill and serve: Let the tzatziki rest in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to develop flavor. Serve chilled as a dip, sauce, or side.