šŸ„’ Tzatziki (Greek Cucumber Yogurt Dip)

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cupsĀ Greek yogurtĀ (thick, full-fat preferred)

  • 1 mediumĀ cucumber, grated

  • 2–3 clovesĀ garlic, finely minced or grated

  • 2 tbspĀ olive oil

  • 1 tbspĀ lemon juiceĀ (fresh)

  • 1 tbspĀ fresh dill, finely chopped (or ½ tbsp dried dill)

  • Salt to taste

  • Optional: 1 tspĀ white vinegarĀ (traditional in Greek recipes)

  • Optional: 2 tbspĀ fresh mintĀ (for extra freshness)


šŸ‘Øā€šŸ³Ā Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cucumber

  • Peel the cucumber (optional).

  • Grate it using a fine grater.

  • Place grated cucumber in a clean cloth or sieve.

  • Squeeze out as much water as possible.

    • This step isĀ veryĀ important — it keeps tzatziki thick and creamy.


2. Prepare the Yogurt Base

In a bowl, mix:

  • Greek yogurt

  • minced garlic

  • olive oil

  • lemon juice

  • dill (and mint if using)

  • salt

Stir until fully combined.


3. Add the Cucumber

  • Fold the squeezed cucumber into the yogurt mixture.

  • Mix well but gently.


4. Chill

  • Refrigerate forĀ 1 hourĀ before serving.

    • This allows flavors to blend beautifully.


5. Serve

Top with:

  • a drizzle of olive oil

  • fresh dill

  • cracked black pepper (optional)

Serve with:

  • Pita bread or pita chips

  • Grilled chicken or kebabs

  • Falafel

  • Shawarma

  • Gyro

  • Roasted vegetables

  • As a dip for snacks


⭐ Chef Tips

  • UseĀ thickĀ Greek yogurt — thin yogurt will make watery tzatziki.

  • Garlic flavor intensifies over time; adjust to taste.

  • Add a bit more olive oil for a richer, silkier dip.

  • Tzatziki can be stored in the fridge forĀ 2–3 days.