Cool Down with the Refreshing Flavors of Greek Tzatzíki Dip.
Discover the simplicity and versatility of Tzatzíki, a creamy cucumber and yogurt dip that’s a staple of Greek cuisine.
This refreshing meze combines fresh cucumber, aromatic garlic, and dill with tangy yogurt, creating a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Perfect for summer gatherings or as an everyday snack, Tzatzíki shines when served alongside grilled meats, crispy pita bread, or a platter of fresh vegetables.
Its light, tangy flavor profile complements a wide variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, making it a must-have for any foodie’s repertoire.
Easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dip embodies the essence of Greek culinary tradition.
Serve it at your next dinner party, or enjoy it as a quick and nutritious snack—it’s guaranteed to impress.
⦁ 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
⦁ 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
⦁ 3 scallions, finely chopped
⦁ 1 tsp olive oil
⦁ ½ tsp white vinegar
⦁ 1 tsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried dill weed)
⦁ 1 cup (8 oz) plain low-fat or nonfat yogurt
1. Prepare the Cucumber: Peel the cucumber, slice it lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Chop into small chunks to yield about 1 cup.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the cucumber, garlic, scallions, olive oil, vinegar, and dill. Mix until well combined.
3. Incorporate the Yogurt: Gently stir in the yogurt, ensuring a smooth and even consistency.
4. Chill and Serve: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold.
🛒 Choosing Ingredients:
✔ Yogurt: Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a thick, creamy texture. Avoid regular yogurt unless you strain it to remove excess liquid.
✔ Cucumber: Pick firm, seedless cucumbers (like English cucumbers) for less water content and better consistency.
✔ Garlic: Use fresh garlic, finely minced or grated, for a bold, authentic flavor. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
👩🍳 Preparation:
✔ Grating the Cucumber: Grate the cucumber finely and place it in a sieve. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
✔ Draining Properly: Squeeze the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel to remove as much water as possible—this prevents a watery tzatzíki.
✔ Balancing Flavors: Mix the yogurt with garlic, cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
🍳 Cooking (if needed):
✔ Mellowing Garlic: If raw garlic is too strong, briefly soak it in lemon juice or olive oil before mixing it in. This helps reduce its sharpness while keeping the flavor intact.
✔ Adjusting Thickness: If your tzatzíki is too thick, add a small amount of water or olive oil until you reach the desired consistency.
📦 Storage:
✔ Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as some liquid separation may occur.
✔ Freezing: Not recommended, as yogurt can separate and become grainy when thawed.
🍽 Serving:
✔ Garnishing: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with fresh dill or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.
✔ Pairing: Serve with warm pita bread, grilled meats, fresh veggies, or as a spread in sandwiches for a refreshing Mediterranean touch