Homemade Tzatziki
This Homemade Tzatziki dip blends grated cucumber, thick Greek yogurt, fresh garlic, dill, olive oil, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. The creamy texture and bright, herbal flavors make it a classic accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, or pita bread, with a refreshing coolness and subtle tang.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cucumber about 1 whole English cucumber, fully peeled or peeled in stripes, grated
- 2 cups Greek yogurt see note, whole milk
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 tablespoons dill I most often use dill, fresh or mint
- salt kosher salt and freshly-ground
- black pepper kosher salt and freshly-ground
Instructions
- Place grated cucumber in a strainer set over a bowl and toss with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Let stand for 30 minutes. Discard liquid that collects in the bowl and dry cucumbers well between double layers of paper towels, pressing out excess water.
- In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon each kosher salt and black pepper. Stir in cucumbers and dill or mint.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour for the flavors to develop. Stir the tzatziki and season to taste with additional salt, pepper, and vinegar or lemon juice, if desired. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Notes
- For authentic flavor, use white wine vinegar; lemon juice can be used for a milder tartness.
- Choose whole milk Greek yogurt for creaminess; reduce vinegar or lemon juice if using low-fat or fat-free yogurt.
- Refrigerate the tzatziki for at least an hour to allow flavors to develop fully before serving.
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain freshness and texture.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 18 servings (2 tablespoons)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 28
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 28kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 1mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 8mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 41mg | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 10IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0.7mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 26mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.