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Tzatziki Recipe

Tzatziki

This classic Tzatziki Recipe is cool, creamy, tangy, and incredibly refreshing. Thick Greek yogurt is combined with crisp cucumber, fresh lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and fragrant dill for a simple Mediterranean dip that comes together in minutes. Serve it with warm pita, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or use it as a creamy sauce for wraps and gyros.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 95
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large English cucumber
  • 1½ cups full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For Garnishing
  • Fresh dill
  • Extra-virgin olive oil

Equipment

  • Box grater
  • Fine-mesh sieve or clean kitchen towel
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving Bowl

Method
 

  1. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a spoon to remove the watery seeds. Coarsely grate the cucumber and place it in a sieve or clean kitchen towel.
    Tzatziki Recipe
  2. Sprinkle the grated cucumber with a little salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Squeeze firmly to remove as much excess water as possible. This is important for keeping the tzatziki thick and creamy.
    Tzatziki Recipe
  3. Add the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dill, salt, and black pepper to a mixing bowl.
  4. Stir everything together until well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust the lemon juice, salt, or garlic according to your preference.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes so the flavors can meld and the garlic becomes more mellow.
    Tzatziki Recipe
  6. Give the tzatziki a good stir before serving. If it seems thicker than you prefer, add a small splash of water or lemon juice.
    Tzatziki Recipe
  7. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh dill. Serve chilled with warm pita bread, vegetables, grilled meats, or your favorite Mediterranean dishes.