Tzatziki

tzatziki

Tzatziki Recipe

Tzatziki—the creamy, cooling crown jewel of Greek cuisine. Imagine a velvety blend of yogurt, crisp cucumber, and garlic, all brought together with a splash of olive oil and a hint of lemon. It’s the kind of sauce that doesn’t just complement a dish—it elevates it. Whether you’re dipping warm pita, drizzling it over grilled meats, or spooning it onto a falafel wrap, tzatziki is the ultimate flavor enhancer. It’s like a Mediterranean breeze in a bowl, refreshing and vibrant, with just enough garlic to keep things interesting.

Tzatziki isn’t just a sauce; it’s a versatile companion. It’s the perfect dip for veggies, the ideal spread for sandwiches, and the ultimate pairing for grilled meats like souvlaki or gyros. It’s also a lifesaver on hot summer days, when its cool, refreshing flavor feels like a culinary oasis. And let’s be honest—it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a kitchen wizard, even if you’re just stirring a few ingredients together.

Recipe: Tzatziki
Makes about 2 cups

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt (full-fat for extra creaminess)

  • 1 medium cucumber, peeled and grated

  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Cucumber (10 minutes):
    Grate the cucumber and place it in a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible—this step is key to avoiding a watery tzatziki.

  2. Mix the Ingredients (5 minutes):
    In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill. Stir until well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  3. Chill and Serve (30 minutes):
    Cover the tzatziki and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled as a dip, spread, or sauce.

Total Time: ~45 minutes (including chilling)

Tips for the Perfect Tzatziki:

  • Use Full-Fat Yogurt: It’s richer and creamier, giving your tzatziki a luxurious texture.

  • Don’t Skip Draining the Cucumber: Removing excess moisture ensures your tzatziki stays thick and not watery.

  • Adjust Garlic to Taste: Garlic can be overpowering, so start with 2 cloves and add more if you’re a fan of bold flavors.

  • Make It Ahead: Tzatziki tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop.

  • Experiment with Herbs: While dill is traditional, you can try mint or parsley for a different twist.

Serve your tzatziki with pita bread, grilled meats, or as a refreshing dip for veggies. It’s the taste of Greece in every bite—creamy, tangy, and utterly irresistible.