Description
Cool Greek tzatziki sauce delivers creamy Mediterranean magic with tangy yogurt and crisp cucumber. Fresh dill and garlic elevate this classic sauce, making you dream of sunny Greek islands and delicious mezze platters.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins and Dairy:
- 2 cups (480 ml) plain full-fat Greek yogurt
Main Produce Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber (unpeeled)
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh dill, minced
Seasonings and Oils:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- ¾ teaspoon (4 g) salt
Instructions
- Carefully select a crisp, fresh cucumber and utilize either a box grater or food processor to transform the vegetable into fine, delicate shreds.
- Position a cheesecloth or clean tea towel over a bowl and transfer the grated cucumber, then apply gentle pressure to extract maximum moisture, ensuring a thick, creamy sauce consistency.
- Select a spacious mixing bowl and combine the thoroughly drained cucumber with smooth Greek yogurt, finely minced garlic cloves, premium extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, fragrant dill, and a pinch of kosher salt.
- Whisk the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution of flavors and creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
- Cover the mixture with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid, then place in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours or ideally overnight, allowing the ingredients to marinate and develop a more complex flavor profile.
- Before serving, give the sauce a gentle stir and transfer to a serving dish, accompanied by warm pita bread, fresh raw vegetables, or as a delectable complement to gyros.
- Store any remaining tzatziki in an airtight container within the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh and delicious for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Drain cucumber thoroughly to prevent watery sauce and ensure a thick, creamy texture that clings perfectly to your favorite dishes.
- Refrigerate for minimum 2 hours to let garlic, dill, and lemon juice infuse deeply, creating a more complex and balanced flavor profile.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for rich, authentic taste and smooth consistency that transforms this sauce from good to extraordinary.
- Fresh dill makes a significant difference compared to dried herbs, bringing bright, aromatic notes that elevate the entire sauce.
- Serve chilled as a versatile condiment that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and Mediterranean-style dishes.
- Keeps well in refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it an excellent make-ahead sauce for quick meal preparations.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg