This creamy, garlicky Authentic Tzatziki Sauce Recipe showcases the perfect balance of cool, refreshing cucumber and rich, tangy Greek yogurt. Made with fresh dill, a hint of lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil, this classic dip is smooth, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
Try it with Greek Lamb Meatballs (Keftedes) or these easy Greek Gyro Pita Pockets and Crispy Greek Fries!
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Authentic Tzatziki sauce is a classic Greek dip made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. It is a staple in Greek cuisine, often served with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a dip for vegetables.
If you like this Greek recipe, you may also love our Authentic Greek Hummus Recipe with Lemon, Garlic, and Pine Nuts or our Easy Tirokafteri Recipe (Greek Spicy Feta Dip).
Why We Love This Recipe
- Healthy Greek Dip: Made with Greek yogurt, this sauce is packed with protein and probiotics. For a unique Greek pairing idea, try it with our Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Spinach Orzo.
- Easy Tzatziki: Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Versatile Sauce: Use it as a dip, spread, or dressing for various dishes.
- Authentic Greek Dip: Brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table.
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce Recipe Ingredients
- Greek Yogurt: Use 5% full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
- Cucumber: Grated and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Garlic: Minced for a robust flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed for a tangy kick.
- Fresh Dill: Chopped for an authentic taste. If you crave this fresh herb, you have got to try our Mediterranean Smashed Cucumber Salad!
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness and enhances the flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute with a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- Lemon Juice: Use red wine vinegar if you prefer a slightly different tang.
How to Make Authentic Tzatziki Sauce
STEP ONE: Prepare the Cucumber
Grate the English cucumber and place it in a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel.
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon kosher salt over the grated cucumber, mix well, and let it sit for 10 minutes. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the cucumber.
STEP TWO: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the drained cucumber, 5% full-fat Greek yogurt, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, fresh dill, and extra virgin olive oil.
Stir all ingredients together until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or as a sauce for grilled meats.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Thoroughly squeeze out the juice from the cucumber. This prevents the sauce from becoming too watery.
✔️ DO Let the Tzatziki chill overnight for best flavor.
Storage
Store the Tzatziki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving.
Recipe FAQs
Tzatziki sauce has a creamy, tangy flavor with a refreshing taste from the cucumber and a slight kick from the garlic. The lemon juice adds acidity, and the fresh dill makes it well balanced.
Freezing Tzatziki sauce is not recommended because the texture changes significantly once thawed. The cucumber and yogurt can release extra moisture, making the sauce watery and less creamy.
Yes, Tzatziki sauce can be a good option for weight loss. It is low in calories and high in protein, when made with Greek yogurt. It contains healthy ingredients like cucumber, garlic, and dill, making it a nutritious choice.
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📖 Recipe
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Knife
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups 5% full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 English cucumber grated and well-drained cucumber: 1 to 1 ¼ cups
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt for cucumber
- 1-2 cloves garlic minced, depending on taste
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grate the English cucumber and place it in a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon kosher salt over the grated cucumber, mix well, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the cucumber.
- In a medium bowl, combine the drained cucumber, 5% full-fat Greek yogurt, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, fresh dill, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Stir all ingredients together until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or as a sauce for grilled meats.
Notes
- Greek Yogurt: Substitute with a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
- Lemon Juice: Use red wine vinegar if you prefer a slightly different tang.
Jami Powell says
Our family loves this dip with warm pita bread or souvlaki chicken!