Homemade Tzatziki – Creamy Greek Yogurt Dip
This homemade tzatziki recipe is a traditional Greek dip made with creamy yogurt, fresh cucumber, garlic, and olive oil. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, pita bread, or as a refreshing side dish. Quick, easy, and full of authentic Mediterranean flavors!
Ingredients
- 500 g strained Greek yogurt
- 2 garlic cloves finely minced or pulped
- 3/4 cup grated cucumber well-strained
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper optional
Instructions
- Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out all the excess moisture. This step is essential to keep the tzatziki thick and creamy.
- In a food processor, blend the garlic, vinegar, salt, and optional white pepper. Puree it to release the garlic’s fragrant oils—this is the key to the tzatziki’s distinct flavor.
- In a large bowl, mix the garlic-vinegar blend with Greek yogurt. Then, add the well-strained cucumber and stir everything together until smooth.
- Drizzle the olive oil into the mixture. Stir well to create a rich, velvety texture that makes tzatziki so irresistible.
- Place your tzatziki in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. It gives the flavors time to marry, creating a smoother, more flavorful dip. Serve chilled with pita, grilled meats, or as part of a meze platter.
Notes
Facts and Tips
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest results.
- Straining the cucumber is essential to avoid a watery dip.
- For a milder garlic flavor, use one clove instead of two.
Variations:
- Herbed Tzatziki: Add fresh dill, mint, or parsley for a herby twist.
- Spicy Tzatziki: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Simple Garlic Cream (1 tbsp yield)
Ingredients:
- 1 large garlic clove (or 2 small ones)
- 1/2 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1–1.5 tsp olive oil (adjust for texture)
- Optional: a pinch of white pepper
Instructions:
- Mash the garlic: Finely mince the garlic, then use the flat side of a knife to mash it with the salt into a paste.
- Blend: Add the vinegar/lemon juice and mix well.
- Emulsify: Slowly drizzle in olive oil while stirring or mashing with a fork until it becomes creamy and smooth.
- Adjust: Add a few more drops of olive oil or lemon juice if needed to reach a smooth, spreadable texture.