🇬🇷 Greece · Food
Tzatziki: Refreshing Greek Cucumber-Yogurt Dip
By eatmundo · July 7, 2026
🇬🇷 GRTzatziki is a beloved, cooling Greek dip made from strained Greek yogurt, fresh cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of vinegar. It's incredibly refreshing and serves as a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, or as part of a meze platter.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the Cucumber: Wash and grate 1 large cucumber (about 300-350g) using the coarse side of a grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This is a crucial step to prevent a watery tzatziki.
- 2
Mince the Garlic: Peel and finely mince 2-3 cloves of garlic, depending on your preference for garlicky flavor. For a smoother paste, you can crush the minced garlic with a pinch of salt using the side of your knife.
- 3
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 500g of full-fat Greek yogurt (strained yogurt is best for thickness) with the squeezed grated cucumber and minced garlic.
- 4
Season the Dip: Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped dill (or mint for an alternative flavor), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper to the bowl.
- 5
Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together vigorously until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want more salt, garlic, or vinegar.
- 6
Chill for Flavor Development: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 1-2 hours, before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dip to chill thoroughly. Tip: Chilling is essential for Tzatziki; it significantly enhances the flavor.
- 7
Serve and Garnish: Before serving, give the tzatziki another quick stir. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with a fresh sprig of dill or a few olives. Serve with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or alongside grilled dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to squeeze the liquid from the cucumber?+
Squeezing out excess liquid from the grated cucumber prevents the tzatziki from becoming watery and ensures a thick, creamy consistency.
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?+
While Greek yogurt is traditional and preferred for its thickness, you can use regular plain yogurt if you strain it thoroughly through cheesecloth for several hours or overnight to remove excess whey.
How long does homemade Tzatziki last in the refrigerator?+
When stored in an airtight container, homemade tzatziki can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors may intensify over time.
What can I serve with Tzatziki besides pita bread?+
Tzatziki is incredibly versatile. It's excellent with grilled meats like souvlaki or gyros, roasted vegetables, as a dip for raw vegetables, or even spread in sandwiches.
🇬🇷 GRMundo Match
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