Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Close-up of thick, creamy Tzatziki Sauce topped with fresh dill and lime zest in a white bowl.

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce Recipe


  • Author: Ahazzam
  • Total Time: 1 hr 20 min
  • Yield: About 2 cups
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Make a classic, thick, and refreshing Tzatziki sauce using Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, and garlic. This easy recipe guarantees the perfect texture for gyros or dipping.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large cucumbers
  • 2 cups full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

  1. Grate the cucumbers using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of cheesecloth.
  2. Wrap the towel tightly around the cucumber and squeeze out as much liquid as possible over the sink. This step is key for thick Tzatziki.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the squeezed cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
  4. Stir all ingredients together until fully mixed.
  5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the Tzatziki for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use only full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture. Do not substitute with regular yogurt unless you strain it first.
  • If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, let the minced garlic sit in the lemon juice for 5 minutes before adding it to the yogurt mixture.
  • Tzatziki tastes best when made a few hours ahead of time. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 0 min
  • Category: Dip
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 85
  • Sugar: 4
  • Sodium: 180
  • Fat: 5
  • Saturated Fat: 3
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 6
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 6
  • Cholesterol: 15