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Tzatziki easy Mediterranean style

Tzatziki
Tzatziki

tzatziki

Tzatziki, a fresh Greek yogurt cucumber dip, brings a burst of light flavor to snacks or salads. See my easy recipe!
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 65

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 unit english cucumber grated and excess water squeezed out
  • 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Grate the cucumber and squeeze out as much excess water as possible using your hands or a clean cloth. This step prevents your tzatziki from becoming watery.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, chopped dill, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix everything thoroughly with a spoon or whisk.
  3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir again to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
  4. Cover and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting time helps flavors blend perfectly.
  5. Serve chilled, drizzled with a little olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh dill if desired. Perfect with pita bread or vegetables.

Notes

Tzatziki is a staple in Greek cuisine, loved for its cool, creamy texture and refreshing taste. Its versatility shines—whether used as a dip, a spread for wraps and sandwiches, or even paired with grilled meats and salads, tzatziki adds a flavorful, tangy touch to just about any meal.

Tips for the Perfect Tzatziki

  • Drain your cucumber thoroughly. Too much moisture is the most common pitfall, and squeezing the grated cucumber in a kitchen towel ensures a thick, luscious sauce.
  • Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier texture. If you prefer a lighter version, low-fat works too, but the dip will be less indulgent.
  • If you’re out of fresh dill, try fresh mint or parsley for a twist. Their herbal notes pair beautifully with the yogurt and cucumber.
  • For a stronger garlic flavor, let the minced garlic sit in the lemon juice for a few minutes before mixing—it will mellow the sharpness while infusing the dip.

Preparation Insights

Letting tzatziki rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour after preparation gives the flavors time to meld and develop—don’t skip this step if you want the best result. And always use fresh lemon juice, never bottled, for that characteristic brightness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve tzatziki cold, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of extra dill. It’s a classic accompaniment for grilled chicken souvlaki, lamb kebabs, falafel, or roasted vegetables. For a snack, pair it with warm pita, crunchy crudités, or spread it onto sandwiches for extra flavor and moisture.
Vary your tzatziki by mixing in chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for added Mediterranean flair. However you serve it, this beloved dip is sure to keep your summer meals light, vibrant, and satisfying!
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