Tzatziki Sauce
This creamy, refreshing sauce is a staple in Greek cuisine and is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes.
Equipment
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Garlic Press
- Cutting Board & Knife
- Spoon or whisk
Ingredients
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt preferably full-fat for creaminess
- 1/2 cucumber finely grated or diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra dill or mint for a fresh touch
- A drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber
- Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly.
- Use a grater to finely grate the cucumber (you can also dice it into small pieces if you prefer a chunkier texture).
- Once grated, place the cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, and gently squeeze to remove excess water. This helps prevent your tzatziki from becoming too watery. Pro Tip: Don't skip this step! Removing the excess water is key to achieving the perfect consistency.
Step 2: Mince the Garlic
- Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them using a garlic press or a sharp knife.
- If you like a stronger garlic flavor, feel free to add more — but keep in mind it can get intense, so start with two cloves.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- In your mixing bowl, add 1 cup of Greek yogurt, the grated cucumber, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
- Stir everything together gently using a spoon or whisk. This helps to distribute the cucumber and garlic evenly throughout the yogurt.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings
- Now, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill (or mint, if you’re using it), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together until well combined. Pro Tip: Taste your tzatziki as you mix — if you like a bolder flavor, add more lemon juice, garlic, or dill.
Step 5: Let It Chill
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives you a perfectly chilled, refreshing sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- When ready to serve, give the tzatziki a quick stir and transfer it to a bowl or use as a topping for your dish.
- Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or more fresh dill or mint for an extra touch.
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving)
- Calories: ~70-90 kcal
- Protein: 4-6 grams
- Fat: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
- Fiber: 0.5-1 gram
- Sugar: 3-4 grams
- Sodium: 50-80 mg
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.