Tzatziki (Cucumber Yogurt Dip)
Creamy, tangy, and refreshing, this tzatziki is the ultimate cooling dip for warm nights and spicy dishes.
Total: 15 minPrep: 15 minCook: 0 minAbout 2 cupsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (234+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Steps
- 1 Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- 2 In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and grated cucumber.
- 3 Add minced garlic, chopped dill, and parsley to the bowl.
- 4 Stir in lemon juice and white wine vinegar.
- 5 Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- 6 Mix well and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Equipment
- Grater
- Kitchen towel or cheesecloth
- Medium bowl
- Spoon or spatula
Variations
- Add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Incorporate finely chopped red bell pepper for a pop of color and crunch.
Substitutions
- Use coconut yogurt for a vegan alternative.
- Substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon of dried dill and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley if fresh isn't available.
Pairings
- Grilled chicken skewers
- Vegetable crudités
- Warm pita bread
Nutrition
Calories:
90 kcal
Fat:
6g fat
Carbs:
4g carbohydrates
Protein:
6g protein
Fiber:
1g fiber
Sugar:
2g sugar
Sodium:
100mg sodium
Tips
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother dip, blend the mixture in a food processor before refrigerating.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving.
Freezing: Does not freeze well due to the texture changes in yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm pita bread, grilled meats, or as a dip for fresh vegetables.
- Pair with falafel or gyros for a classic Mediterranean experience.
FAQ
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but the dip may be thinner. You can strain regular yogurt to thicken it.
How do I reduce the garlic flavor?
Use less garlic or substitute with garlic powder to taste.