Tzatziki is a refreshing and creamy Greek dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It’s versatile and pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, or pita bread. This easy tzatziki recipe comes together in just minutes and is a great addition to any Mediterranean meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a light and flavorful snack, this tzatziki is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1 cucumber (English cucumber is best)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or mint, if preferred)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumber

Grate the cucumber using a box grater or a food processor. English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, but you can use any variety. After grating, place the cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is important to ensure your tzatziki doesn’t become too watery.

2. Mix the Yogurt Base

In a medium bowl, add the Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is preferred because of its thick, creamy consistency, but if you only have regular yogurt, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for about 30 minutes to remove excess liquid and thicken it up.

3. Add the Garlic and Cucumber

Stir the minced garlic and grated, drained cucumber into the yogurt. Garlic is a key ingredient in tzatziki, giving it that signature kick. If you want a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic to just one clove or let the garlic rest in the yogurt for a bit before mixing to mellow the flavor.

4. Season the Tzatziki

Add the olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped fresh dill (or mint) to the yogurt mixture. Lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the yogurt. Fresh dill or mint gives the tzatziki a herbal freshness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.

5. Chill and Serve

For best results, cover the tzatziki and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold with pita bread, as a side for grilled meats like souvlaki or kebabs, or as a dip for vegetables.

Tips:

• Adjust to taste: If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a splash of water or more olive oil to the tzatziki.
• Storage: Tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This easy tzatziki recipe is a delicious and healthy accompaniment to any meal, adding a cooling contrast to spicy dishes or a creamy dip to your appetizers. Enjoy!