There is nothing quite like the refreshing, zesty bite of a well-made Tzatziki to brighten up a meal. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a healthy afternoon snack, this classic Greek dip is a versatile staple that comes together in less than ten minutes. Its cooling cucumber base and fragrant herbs make it the perfect companion for everything from spicy grilled kabobs to simple crunchy carrot sticks.

Recipe Details

  • Yields: 3 servings
  • Prep Time: 2 min
  • Cook Time: 6 min
  • Total Time: 8 min

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Greek yogurt
  • 3 inches Cucumber
  • Dill
  • 1 clove/teaspoon Garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Olive oil
  • Lemon/lime or vinegar
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions

  1. Begin by finely grating the section of cucumber and chopping the fresh dill into small pieces.
  2. Place the grated cucumber into a clean kitchen towel and squeeze it firmly to strain out all excess liquid. This step is essential for maintaining a thick, creamy consistency.
  3. Using a mortar and pestle, grind the garlic clove together with the olive oil until they form a smooth, fragrant paste.
  4. Incorporate the strained cucumber, the chopped dill, and the garlic-oil mixture into the two cups of Greek yogurt.
  5. Add a bright note to the dip by squeezing in a bit of lemon or lime juice, or a splash of vinegar if you prefer a sharper tang.
  6. Season the mixture with a generous pinch of salt and a small dash of pepper to taste.
  7. For a richer finish, you may choose to stir in an additional drizzle of olive oil.
  8. Give everything a final stir to ensure the flavors are well combined, then serve it alongside your favorite snacks.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Tzatziki is as flavorful as possible, try to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes before serving; this allows the garlic and dill to truly infuse into the yogurt. When selecting your cucumber, look for one with thin skin and small seeds to make the grating process easier. If you find yourself without a mortar and pestle, you can achieve a similar result by very finely mincing the garlic and whisking it together with the oil before adding it to the bowl.

Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen today with this quick and zesty dip!