Authentic Tzatziki Sauce Recipe (2024)

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Thanks to readily available store-bought Greek yogurt, no straining is necessary for this recipe. I also don't use olive oil, but you are welcome to add some if you would like.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED TO MAKE AUTHENTIC TZATZIKI SAUCE?

Detailed measurements and instructions can be found on the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page.

INGREDIENTS

• Greek yogurt
• Cucumber
• pink salt
• Garlic
• Fresh dill
• Cracked black pepper
• Fresh lemon juice

Place the chopped cucumber in acolander, sprinkle with salt, and allow it to sit for at least 30 mins to let the cucumber to release its liquid.

STEP 2

Add the drained cucumbers, garlic, dill, and black pepper to thefood processor. Process until smooth.

STEP 3

Using a fine-mesh strainer, drain the mixture to eliminate excess liquid which can make your Tzatziki runny.

STEP 4

In alarge bowl, combine the cucumber mixture with the yogurt and lemon juice.

STEP 5

Taste and adjust your salt and pepper if needed. Place in an airtight container, The sauce can be used immediately but, for best flavor results, I would and allow it to sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld.

STEP 6

Tzatziki Sauce can be stored in anairtight containerin the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It should be used as quickly as possible because the cucumbers will give off more liquid and the sauce will separate. If your sauce gets a little runny you can add more Greek yogurt to thicken it back up.

TIPS FOR MAKING THE PERFECT TZATZIKI SAUCE

What yogurt do I use to make Tzatziki? Traditionally it is made with sheep or goat's yogurt, but storebought Greek yogurt is perfect and makes for a deliciously creamy sauce. If you use traditional plain yogurt your sauce will end up too runny, even if you strain it, ask me how I know!

What kind of cucumbers should I use? You can use regular cucumbers or English cucumbers. If you use the former you need to peel and seed it. By using the English cucumber I eliminate a few steps. Some people still prefer to peel and seed them as well but I find that by using the food processor and straining the mixture, most of the liquid is removed.

Can I use bottled lemon juice? I know it seems like a quick and easy thing to do but I beg you to grab a fresh lemon and juice it. The difference is HUGE!

Do I have to use salt? Yes, the salt helps to draw the liquid out of the cucumber, plus it brings out the flavor. Salt is to flavors like an amplifier is to your stereo speakers. Most of the time I don't need to add extra salt at the end as the amount used to draw the liquid out of the cucumbers is usually enough. But always taste and adjust at the end.

Do I have to use fresh dill? This is an emphatic YES! Dried dill might be enough for many recipes that use heat, but the brightness of fresh dill is a must-have in this sauce.

HOW TO USE TZATZIKI SAUCE

• Vegetables - You can use Tzatziki as a dip for fresh veggies, or as a sauce for grilled or roasted veggies. Some of the vegetables it goes well with are cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, mushrooms, green beans, and zucchini.
• Spread - It is terrific spread on low carb bread in sandwiches, or low carb wraps, and the perfect condiment for burgers.
• Sauce - Tzatziki compliments grilled meats fabulously!

I also love to thin it a bit with water and pour it over my chopped salads!

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