World’s Best Tzatziki Recipe
Introduction
Tzatziki is a refreshing Greek yogurt and cucumber sauce that’s perfect as a dip or accompaniment to grilled meats. This recipe brings out the best flavors with fresh dill, garlic, and lemon for a cool, tangy taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Plain Greek Yogurt
- 1 cup Seedless Cucumber
- 1 Lemon
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill
- Salt, to taste
- Ground Black Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Strain the Greek yogurt using a cheesecloth or coffee filter for 30 minutes to 3 hours to remove excess moisture. This step can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Step 2: Sprinkle salt over the seedless cucumber and lay it on a paper towel to draw out moisture.
- Step 3: In a bowl, mix the strained yogurt, cucumber, fresh dill, minced garlic, and the juice of one lemon.
- Step 4: Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chilled.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, finely grate the cucumber before adding it to the yogurt mixture.
- Add a splash of olive oil on top when serving for extra richness.
- Use fresh mint instead of dill for a different herbal twist.
Storage
Store tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be made a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Regular yogurt is thinner and contains more moisture, so the dip may be runnier. If using regular yogurt, strain it well or add less cucumber to maintain the creamy consistency.
How do I prevent the cucumber from making the tzatziki watery?
Salting the cucumber and draining it on paper towels helps remove excess water. You can also squeeze the grated cucumber lightly with your hands before mixing it in.
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World’s Best Tzatziki Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes to 3 hours (including straining time)
- Yield: Approximately 1.5 cups 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This World’s Best Tzatziki recipe is a creamy, refreshing Greek yogurt-based dip that combines the tanginess of lemon, the cool crunch of cucumber, and the aromatic flavors of fresh dill and garlic. Perfect as a side for grilled meats, a dip for pita bread, or a sauce for Mediterranean dishes, this homemade tzatziki is easy to make and bursts with authentic flavor.
Ingredients
Yogurt Base
- 2 cups Plain Greek Yogurt
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup Seedless Cucumber
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill
- 2 cloves Garlic
Seasonings
- 1 Lemon (juice only)
- Salt, to taste
- Ground Black Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Strain the Yogurt: Place the plain Greek yogurt into a cheesecloth or coffee filter and let it strain for 30 minutes to 3 hours to remove excess moisture. This step enhances the creaminess but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- Prepare the Cucumber: Sprinkle salt over the seedless cucumber and spread it out on a paper towel. This helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring your tzatziki is not watery.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the strained yogurt, the salted cucumber, fresh dill, minced garlic, and the juice of one lemon. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly, then chill if desired before serving. Enjoy your homemade tzatziki with pita, grilled meats, or as a refreshing dip.
Notes
- Straining the yogurt is optional but recommended for a thicker consistency.
- Seedless cucumber can be substituted with regular cucumber; just remove the seeds before use.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your preference for pungency.
- Best served chilled for optimal flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
Keywords: Tzatziki, Greek Yogurt Dip, Mediterranean Dip, Greek Sauce, Garlic Dip
