Authentic Greek Tzatziki Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- Grate the cucumber: Using a coarse hand grater, grate the cucumber with its skin on to ensure maximum flavor and texture.
- 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.
- Squeeze out excess water: Take handfuls of the cucumber and squeeze firmly to remove most of its water, preventing a watery dip.
- 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.
- Mix well: Stir all ingredients very well until thoroughly combined for an even distribution of flavors.
- 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
Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/authentic-greek-tzatziki-recipe/
