Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 1 medium cucumber
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- Extra lemon zest
- Additional olive oil for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber
Wash the cucumber thoroughly.
Using the large holes of a box grater, grate the cucumber.
Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Removing excess water prevents the tzatziki from becoming thin and watery.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine:
- Greek yogurt
- Grated cucumber
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Fresh dill
- Salt
- Black pepper
Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
This allows the flavors to blend and develop.
For the best flavor, chill for 1-2 hours before serving.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl.
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with fresh dill if desired.
Serve chilled.
Serving Suggestions
Tzatziki pairs beautifully with:
- Warm pita bread
- Fresh vegetables
- Grilled chicken
- Lamb kebabs
- Gyros
- Falafel
- Mediterranean grain bowls
- Roasted potatoes
- Sandwiches and wraps
Expert Tips
Use Thick Greek Yogurt
Authentic tzatziki should be thick and creamy. Full-fat Greek yogurt provides the richest texture and flavor.
Remove Excess Moisture
Properly draining the cucumber is the key to a thick, restaurant-quality tzatziki.
Fresh Herbs Make a Difference
Fresh dill adds a bright flavor that dried herbs cannot replicate.
Make Ahead
Tzatziki tastes even better after several hours in the refrigerator.
Variations
Mint Tzatziki
Add 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint for a refreshing twist.
Spicy Tzatziki
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño.
Lemon Herb Tzatziki
Increase lemon juice and add fresh parsley.
Vegan Tzatziki
Use a thick dairy-free yogurt made from coconut, almond, or soy milk.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Stir before serving if any liquid separates.
Freezing
Not recommended, as yogurt may become grainy after thawing.
