Name: Rose’s Tzatziki Greek Yoghurt Dip: Authentic Recipe with Cool Cucumber Crunch
Prep time: PT-485228H36M34S
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2% for a creamier texture); 1 cucumber, peeled and grated; 1-2 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to your taste); 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1-2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tzatziki recipe brings a burst of flavor while keeping things light and healthy. The creamy Greek yogurt base pairs perfectly with the refreshing crunch of cucumber, the sharpness of garlic, and the brightness of lemon and dill. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a go-to for parties, picnics, and casual dinners. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can serve as a dip, a sauce, or even a spread. The best part? It’s naturally gluten-free and full of protein from the yogurt.

Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2% for a creamier texture)
1 cucumber, peeled and grated
1-2 garlic cloves, minced (adjust to your taste)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1-2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the cucumber: Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out any excess water to prevent your dip from becoming too runny.
Mix the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, and olive oil. Stir until well combined.
Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the garlic and lemon juice based on your preference for a more robust or milder flavor.
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This will allow the tzatziki to reach its full potential in flavor.
Serve: Once chilled, serve with pita bread, fresh veggies, grilled meats, or any of your favorite snacks. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe serves about 4-6 people as a dip.
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegan Tzatziki: Replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond-based yogurt.
Spicy Tzatziki: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or finely minced jalapeño to give it a spicy kick.
Mint Tzatziki: If you prefer a different herb, fresh mint can be substituted for dill for a refreshing twist.

Storage/Reheating

Tzatziki is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors may even improve as they sit! Just give it a quick stir before serving. It is not recommended to freeze tzatziki, as the yogurt may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I prevent the tzatziki from being too watery?

To avoid a watery dip, make sure to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible from the grated cucumber before adding it to the mix.

Can I make tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes! Tzatziki tastes even better after sitting for a while, so feel free to prepare it a few hours or the night before.

What can I serve tzatziki with?

Tzatziki pairs wonderfully with pita bread, fresh vegetables like carrots and cucumbers, grilled meats, falafel, or even as a sauce for wraps and sandwiches.

Can I substitute fresh dill with dried dill?

Yes, you can use dried dill in place of fresh dill. However, use less, as dried herbs tend to be more concentrated.

Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt is recommended for its thick, creamy texture, but you can use plain yogurt if that’s all you have. Just make sure to strain it to remove excess liquid.

How long does tzatziki last in the fridge?

Tzatziki can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days if stored in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables to tzatziki?

Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like red onion or grated carrots for extra flavor and crunch.

Is tzatziki gluten-free?

Yes, tzatziki is naturally gluten-free, as it’s made with Greek yogurt and fresh vegetables.

Can I make tzatziki spicy?

For a spicier version, add a small amount of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or minced jalapeños.

Is tzatziki healthy?

Yes, tzatziki is a healthy dip option as it is low in calories, high in protein, and packed with fresh vegetables and herbs.

Conclusion

Rose’s Tzatziki Greek Yogurt Dip is the perfect addition to your appetizer table or summer meals. With its creamy texture, refreshing cucumber crunch, and burst of flavor from garlic, dill, and lemon, this dip will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re using it as a dip, spread, or sauce, its versatility and deliciousness will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s simple to make and easy to store for future use. Enjoy this light and flavorful dip at your next gathering, and savor the authentic taste of Greece!