Description
This authentic homemade tzatziki sauce is creamy, tangy, and refreshing—perfect for pairing with grilled meats, vegetables, or pita bread. Made with full-fat Greek yogurt, fresh cucumber, garlic, and dill, it comes together quickly with bold Mediterranean flavor. It’s healthier than store-bought, naturally low-carb, and incredibly versatile.
Ingredients
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt (plain, strained if needed)
- 1 medium English cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or mint)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Grate the cucumber using a box grater. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Fold in the drained cucumber and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir gently until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use thick coconut yogurt and adjust lemon juice and salt to balance the sweetness.
- Straining the yogurt overnight in a cheesecloth-lined strainer helps create an even thicker texture.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—avoid pre-minced or jarred versions.
- This sauce is ideal as a dip, spread, or light dressing when thinned with lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce, Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean