Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe

Introduction

Tzatziki is a refreshing Greek yogurt and cucumber dip, perfect for warm days or as a flavorful side. Its creamy texture combined with garlic and olive oil makes it a versatile addition to many meals.

Ingredients

• 480 grams (2 cups) strained Greek yogurt
• 180 grams (1 medium) cucumber
• 3 garlic cloves (finely grated, finely minced, or pressed)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• ⅓ teaspoon sea salt (+ a little bit extra)
• ⅓ teaspoon ground pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grate the cucumber with its skin on, using the coarse side of a hand grater.
2. Step 2: Place the grated cucumber in a strainer, sprinkle lightly with some sea salt, and rub well. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to drain.
3. Step 3: Squeeze the grated cucumber in your hands to remove most of its water, then add it to a mixing bowl along with the Greek yogurt.
4. Step 4: Add the garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and ground pepper to the bowl and mix thoroughly.
5. Step 5: Refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the garlic mellow. You can serve it immediately if you enjoy stronger garlic flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother texture, peel the cucumber before grating or remove seeds if they are large.
• Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer and creamier dip.
• Add fresh dill or mint for an herbaceous twist.
• If you prefer a thinner consistency, stir in a tablespoon of cold water or more olive oil.

Storage

Store tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. It is best enjoyed chilled and can be served as a dip or sauce with grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Regular yogurt can be used but may make the tzatziki less thick. Straining it through a cheesecloth for a few hours will help achieve a creamier consistency similar to Greek yogurt.

How long does the garlic flavor last in tzatziki?

The garlic flavor mellows after refrigeration for a few hours and becomes more balanced. Serving immediately will give a stronger raw garlic taste, while overnight chilling results in a milder, more harmonious flavor.

Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 63 reviews

This authentic Greek Tzatziki recipe combines creamy strained Greek yogurt with fresh cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and tangy red wine vinegar to create a refreshing, vibrant dip perfect for serving with pita bread or as a side condiment. The cooling effect of refrigeration enhances its flavors, making it a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

• Author: Sana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: Approximately 2 cups (serves 4-6) 1x
• Category: Dip
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Primary Ingredients

• 480 grams (2 cups) strained Greek yogurt
• 180 grams (1 medium) cucumber
• 3 garlic cloves (finely grated, minced or pressed)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• ⅓ teaspoon sea salt (+ a little bit extra for draining cucumber)
• ⅓ teaspoon ground pepper

Instructions

1. Grate the cucumber: Using a coarse hand grater, grate the cucumber with its skin on to ensure maximum flavor and texture.
2. Drain the cucumber: Place the grated cucumber into a strainer, sprinkle it lightly with sea salt, and rub it thoroughly. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture.
3. Squeeze out excess water: Take handfuls of the cucumber and squeeze firmly to remove most of its water, preventing a watery dip.
4. Combine ingredients: Add the squeezed grated cucumber to a mixing bowl along with the strained Greek yogurt. Then add the garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and ground pepper.
5. Mix well: Stir all ingredients very well until thoroughly combined for an even distribution of flavors.
6. Chill before serving: Refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 3 hours to mellow the garlic’s sharpness and blend the flavors. Alternatively, refrigerate overnight for best results. If you prefer the raw garlic flavor, feel free to serve immediately with pita or crusty bread.

Notes

• The cucumber is kept with the skin on to retain more nutrients and add a slight bite to the dip.
• Salting and resting the grated cucumber is essential to draw out extra water and prevent the dip from becoming watery.
• Using strained Greek yogurt ensures a thick, creamy texture crucial for authentic tzatziki.
• Adjust salt and garlic quantity to taste depending on preference.
• This dip pairs wonderfully with pita bread, grilled meats, or as a refreshing sauce for Mediterranean dishes.

Keywords: Tzatziki, Greek yogurt dip, Mediterranean dip, cucumber yogurt sauce, garlic dip, Greek recipe, healthy dip, vegan substitute