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
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1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt (plain, strained if needed)
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1 medium English cucumber, grated and drained
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2 garlic cloves, finely minced
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1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or mint)
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½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
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⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
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Grate the cucumber using a box grater. Wrap in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Set aside.
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In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, and minced garlic until smooth.
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Fold in the drained cucumber and chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper.
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Stir gently until all ingredients are fully combined.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
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For a dairy-free version, use thick coconut yogurt and adjust lemon juice and salt to balance the sweetness.
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Straining the yogurt overnight in a cheesecloth-lined strainer helps create an even thicker texture.
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Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—avoid pre-minced or jarred versions.
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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
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 55 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 135mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Tzatziki sauce, Greek yogurt dip, cucumber garlic sauce, homemade tzatziki, Mediterranean dip