Tzatziki is a creamy, refreshing, and versatile sauce that’s perfect for dipping or as a topping. This healthy tzatziki recipe is made from scratch with just five simple ingredients, providing a fresh and flavorful addition to any Mediterranean-inspired dish. Whether paired with veggies, meats, or grains, this homemade tzatziki sauce is sure to elevate your meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tzatziki sauce is the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, offering a refreshing coolness that complements a variety of dishes. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just five ingredients, and the homemade version tastes far superior to store-bought options. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and the fresh flavors it adds to your meals.
Ingredients
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1 large cucumber
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1 ½ cups Greek yogurt (preferably 2% or 5% fat)
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1 garlic clove, finely minced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
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Kosher salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Grate the cucumber on the large side of a box grater.
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Place the grated cucumber in a paper towel and squeeze out the excess moisture.
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Transfer the cucumber to a medium-sized bowl.
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Add the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper to the cucumber.
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Mix thoroughly until combined.
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Chill the tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve with fresh veggies, pita, or as a topping for meats.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Approximately 6 servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Chilling Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Tzatziki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a kick of spice.
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Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to enhance the citrusy flavor.
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Minty Tzatziki: Swap out some of the dill for fresh mint for a refreshing twist.
Storage/Reheating
Tzatziki sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note that some separation may occur, so just give it a good stir before serving again. Do not freeze as the yogurt may separate when thawed.
FAQs
How do I keep my tzatziki from being too watery?
To avoid watery tzatziki, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated cucumber before mixing it with the yogurt.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt provides a thicker consistency and creamier texture, which is ideal for tzatziki. However, you can use regular yogurt in a pinch, but it may result in a thinner dip.
How can I make tzatziki without dill?
If you don't have fresh dill, you can substitute it with fresh mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Can I add other herbs to tzatziki?
Yes, you can experiment with different herbs like mint or oregano to give the tzatziki a unique twist.
How much garlic should I use in tzatziki?
Start with one small garlic clove, and adjust according to your taste preference. Raw garlic can be quite potent, so it’s best to start small.
Can tzatziki sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, tzatziki can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Let the flavors meld overnight for the best taste.
Can I make tzatziki without vinegar?
You can substitute lemon juice for the vinegar for a slightly different but still delicious tang.
Is tzatziki sauce vegan?
Traditional tzatziki contains yogurt, which makes it non-vegan. However, you can substitute the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative for a vegan version.
What dishes go well with tzatziki?
Tzatziki pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fresh vegetables, pita bread, and Mediterranean dishes like falafel, souvlaki, or a grain bowl.
Can I freeze tzatziki?
It's not recommended to freeze tzatziki as it may separate when thawed, affecting the texture and taste.
Conclusion
This healthy tzatziki sauce is a simple, fresh, and flavorful addition to any meal. With just five ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed as a dip, topping, or dressing. Whether you’re serving it with fresh vegetables, grilled meats, or Mediterranean dishes, tzatziki will bring a cool and creamy element to your table.
Tzatziki Sauce Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This healthy tzatziki sauce is a creamy, tangy, and refreshing dip made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and fresh herbs. Perfect as a dip for veggies or pita, or as a topping for meats. Quick to make with just five ingredients, this homemade tzatziki elevates Mediterranean-inspired dishes with ease.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
1 large cucumber
1 ½ cups Greek yogurt (preferably 2% or 5% fat)
1 garlic clove, finely minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Instructions:
-
Grate the cucumber on the large side of a box grater.
-
Place the grated cucumber in a paper towel and squeeze out the excess moisture.
-
Transfer the cucumber to a medium-sized bowl.
-
Add the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper to the cucumber.
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Mix thoroughly until combined.
-
Chill the tzatziki sauce in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve with fresh veggies, pita, or as a topping for meats.
Notes
- Storage: Tzatziki sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if separation occurs.
- Substitutes: Swap dill for fresh mint or parsley, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
