Delicious Tzatziki Sauce Recipe for Summer Nights

Published: February 24, 2026

by Carol

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This tzatziki sauce recipe is so easy, even your kitchen-phobic friend might give it a whirl
Bursting with cool, tangy goodness, every bite feels like a mini-vacation to Greece
With its creamy texture and vibrant green flecks, it’s like a culinary Picasso on your plate
Whether you’re dipping veggies or slathering it on gyros, this sauce knows no bounds!

One summer evening, my friends raved about my tzatziki sauce recipe, turning a simple barbecue into a delicious feast.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious tzatziki sauce recipe:

Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a rich and creamy texture that enhances flavor

Cucumber: Choose a firm cucumber, preferably English or Persian, for crispness and less moisture

Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; adjust the amount based on your preference for garlic intensity

Dill: Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor; if unavailable, dried dill can be a substitute

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the sauce; avoid bottled juice for the best taste

Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and flavor depth

Salt: Use kosher salt to season the sauce; adjust according to your taste preferences

Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick; use sparingly or to your liking

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all your ingredients: Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. This ensures a smooth cooking process.

Prepare the Cucumber: Grate one medium cucumber using a box grater or food processor. Squeeze out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel—this step prevents your tzatziki from becoming too watery.

Mingle the Flavors: In a bowl, combine your grated cucumber with one cup of Greek yogurt. Add two minced garlic cloves, one tablespoon of olive oil, and the juice of half a lemon. Mix everything well until it’s creamy and smooth.

Add Fresh Herbs and Seasoning: Fold in two tablespoons of chopped fresh dill along with salt and pepper to taste. Taste as you go; adjusting the seasoning makes all the difference in flavor.

Chill Before Serving: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature tzatziki taste.

Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, give your tzatziki a good stir before serving. Pair it with pita bread or fresh vegetables for dipping, enjoying the creamy texture and zesty flavor that truly delight the palate.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use Greek yogurt for a thicker, creamier tzatziki; it enhances the flavor and gives the perfect texture
Always squeeze excess moisture from cucumbers to prevent a watery sauce; this keeps it fresh and flavorful
For a zesty kick, let your tzatziki chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to meld the flavors

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grating the cucumber and squeezing out excess moisture. While it drains, mix Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and dill in a bowl. Once combined, fold in the cucumber and season to taste. Allow the tzatziki sauce to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative with your tzatziki sauce recipe. Swap out the plain yogurt for Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. Try adding fresh dill or mint for a flavor twist. For a bit of heat, mix in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Enjoy experimenting!

Storing & Reheating

To store tzatziki sauce, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture. When ready to use, simply give it a good stir. No reheating is necessary; serve chilled for the best flavor.

FAQ

What is the main ingredient in a tzatziki sauce recipe?

The main ingredient in tzatziki sauce is Greek yogurt, which gives it a creamy texture.

How long can I store homemade tzatziki sauce?

Homemade tzatziki sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I customize my tzatziki sauce recipe?

Yes, you can customize your tzatziki by adding herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.

Tzatziki Sauce

Print Recipe

A refreshing and creamy tzatziki sauce made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, perfect for dipping or as a condiment.

Course Dip, Sauce

Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean

Keyword dipping sauce, tzatziki, yogurt sauce

Prep Time 15

Total Time 1

Servings servings

Calories 50

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup Greek yogurt Full-fat for creaminess
1 medium Cucumber Grated and excess moisture squeezed out
2 cloves Garlic Minced
1 tablespoon Olive oil Extra virgin recommended
1/2 lemon Lemon juice Freshly squeezed
2 tablespoons Fresh dill Chopped
to taste Salt Kosher salt recommended
to taste Pepper Freshly ground

Instructions

Preparation

Gather all your ingredients: Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture with a kitchen towel.
In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy and smooth.
Fold in chopped dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld.
Stir the tzatziki before serving. Enjoy with pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Notes

For a thicker tzatziki, use full-fat Greek yogurt and ensure to squeeze out moisture from the cucumber.

Nutrition

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