The Best Creamy Easy Tzatziki You Will Ever Make
This Easy Tzatziki recipe is the ultimate creamy, cooling sauce for your next BBQ or healthy reset. Ready in 15 minutes and better than store-bought!
Too hot to turn on the oven? This Easy Tzatziki is the cooling, creamy answer to your summer cravings.
It is fresh, bright, and honestly addictive. You will want to put this on everything. It is the perfect healthy reset for your menu.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total game-changer for your weekly meal prep. It takes just 15 minutes of active work. The result is restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen.
It is high in protein thanks to the Greek yogurt. It feels light but tastes incredibly indulgent. Your holiday guests will beg for the recipe.
How It Comes Together
The secret is all in the cucumber prep. You just grate, squeeze, and stir. It is completely foolproof and requires zero cooking.
Even if you are a kitchen novice, you can nail this. It is all about fresh ingredients and one simple technique.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are likely already in your fridge. Use the freshest herbs you can find for the best punch.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt, plain and full-fat
- 1/2 large English cucumber, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Step-by-Step
- Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater.
- Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly.
- Remove as much liquid as possible to avoid a watery sauce.
- In a medium bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Fold the drained cucumber and fresh dill into the yogurt mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors develop beautifully.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this chilled with warm, fluffy pita bread. It is pure magic alongside grilled chicken skewers or lamb. You can also use it as a veggie dip.
It makes a fantastic spread for wraps. Try it on a summer burger for a fresh twist.
Keep It Fresh
Store your leftovers in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. Give it a quick stir before serving each time.
Do not freeze this sauce. The texture of the yogurt will change. It is best enjoyed cold and fresh.
Pro Tips
- Use full-fat yogurt for the creamiest results.
- English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
- Do not skip the 30-minute chill time.
- Squeeze that cucumber until no more water comes out.
- Finely mince the garlic so there are no big bites.
- Use fresh dill instead of dried for maximum flavor.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add fresh mint for an extra cooling sensation.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap lemon for lime for a different citrus kick.
- Use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt?
Greek yogurt is best because it is thicker. Regular yogurt might make the sauce too runny.
Do I need to peel the cucumber?
If using English cucumber, the skin is very thin. You can leave it on for extra color.
You need this in your life right now. Go make it!
— Jasmine
Ingredients
Method
- Grate the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater.
- Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Fold the drained cucumber and chopped dill into the yogurt mixture.
- Season with salt and black pepper, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
