Authentic Tzatziki Recipe: Easy Greek Yogurt & Cucumber Sauce

Cool, creamy, and tangy, this homemade tzatziki recipe is the ultimate Mediterranean dip for veggies, pita, and grilled meats.

This yogurt and cucumber sauce is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, served alongside grilled vegetables and meat, and as a dip on mezze platters, with chopped vegetables, pita, and more. You can buy it pre-made in most stores, but it’s simple to make at home, for adding a cool, tangy punch to summertime meals. Greek yogurt — especially low-fat — creates a creamier texture and boosts the protein. English (or Persian) cucumbers contain less liquid, making a smoother and less watery sauce.

Tzatziki Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need

Black pepper, to taste

¼ English cucumber, peeled and finely diced (or grated on a box grater, if preferred)

8 ounces plain low-fat Greek yogurt

¾ tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1-2 clove garlic (as preferred), minced

1 tablespoon dill, finely chopped

1.5 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

¼ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix salt with chopped or grated cucumber, and place in a cheesecloth or tea towel over a small bowl. Let the liquid strain out while you prepare the rest of the sauce.
2. In another bowl, add yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, dill, and olive oil, and whisk to combine. 
3. Squeeze as much liquid as you can out of the cucumbers, then mix them into the sauce.
4. Taste and add salt to desired level, and a dash of black pepper. 
5. Refrigerate until ready to use. To serve, drizzle a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some chopped dill over the top. 

Nutrition (4 servings): Calories: 95; Protein: 6.5 g; Fat: 6.5 g (5.2 g mono- and polyunsaturated); Carbohydrate: 3.5 g; Sodium: 180-200 mg

Read This Next