Classic Tzatziki Recipe with Greek Yogurt and Fresh Herbs Recipe
This traditional Greek Tzatziki recipe is a refreshing and flavorful yogurt-based dip made with grated cucumber, fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice. Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a healthy dip for veggies and pita bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup
- Category: Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1½ packed cups cucumber (9 ounces), grated with large holes of box grater
- 2 tablespoons dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon mint, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced (add more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt (add more to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber: Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to avoid a watery tzatziki.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped dill, chopped mint (if using), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
- Mix well: Stir all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the flavors distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the tzatziki and add more garlic or salt if desired, mixing again to incorporate.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve chilled as a dip for fresh vegetables, pita bread, or as a sauce alongside grilled meats or gyros.
Notes
- Removing excess water from the cucumber is essential to prevent a watery dip.
- Fresh herbs like dill and mint can be adjusted according to preference or omitted if unavailable.
- Tzatziki tastes best when allowed to chill for at least an hour to blend the flavors.
- Add garlic gradually, as its intensity can overpower the dip if too much is used.
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamier, richer consistency.