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How to Make the Best Tzatziki Sauce at Home

By Hetti Misenti

Tzatziki Sauce
Credit: Adobe Stock

Tzatziki is one of those classic dips that I can always seem to find a use. It’s a creamy yogurt-based sauce with crisp cucumber, a touch of garlic (a bit more than a touch if you are like me), and a mix of herbs that brings all the flavors together.

I find it to be light and refreshing, but it’s also enough to stand up to hearty grilled meats, warm pita bread, or my favorite… roasted vegetables. It has a unique cool and tangy balance and is also savory enough to complement just about any dish I can think of.

The beauty of making tzatziki at home is how simple the recipe is. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a sauce that’s more flavorful and versatile than anything store-bought.

Serve it as a dip at a casual gathering, spread it on a sandwich for an easy upgrade, or keep it in the fridge to add a quick burst of Mediterranean flavor to weeknight meals.

Once you get comfortable with it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start using this dip more widely sooner.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 medium cucumber, grated (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
  • 1 tsp fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cucumber: Grate the cucumber using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated cucumber in a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer. Squeeze firmly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible (this prevents a watery sauce).
  2. Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, mint (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until fully blended.
  3. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Serve: Stir again before serving. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs for garnish if desired.