Homemade Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
How to make the BEST Tzatziki Sauce! An easy, healthy, Greek cucumber-yogurt sauce to use in mezze platters, wraps, gyros, or as a simple dip for pita, or as a delightful side to Mediterranean dishes. This simple recipe can be made in 15 minutes!
How to Make the Best Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing Greek classic that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire. This creamy cucumber-yogurt sauce strikes the perfect balance between cool, tangy, and herbaceous—making it an incredibly versatile addition to your meals. Whether you’re building a mezze platter, stuffing a gyro, or simply looking for a healthier dip for pita bread, tzatziki delivers bright Mediterranean flavors in every bite.
The secret to exceptional tzatziki lies in properly draining the grated cucumber. This crucial step prevents your sauce from becoming watery and ensures a thick, luscious texture. Using full-fat Greek yogurt adds richness and body, while fresh dill and garlic provide that unmistakable authentic taste. A squeeze of lemon brightens everything up, and a drizzle of good olive oil adds a silky finish.
In just 20 minutes, you can have a batch of homemade tzatziki that far surpasses anything store-bought. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, falafel, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread. Make extra—it keeps well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
How to make the BEST Tzatziki Sauce! An easy, healthy, Greek cucumber-yogurt sauce to use in mezze platters, wraps, gyros, or as a simple dip for pita, or as a delightful side to Mediterranean dishes. This simple recipe can be made in 15 minutes!
Ingredients
Cucumber Prep
Tzatziki Sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumber
- If using thin-skinned cucumbers, there is no need to peel. Grate the cucumbers using a box grater, and place in a fine mesh strainer.
- Toss with the salt and place the strainer over a bowl. Let sit 10-15 minutes to allow cucumbers to release their liquid while you prep the remaining ingredients.
Make the Tzatziki
- In a medium bowl, whisk the yogurt, garlic and fresh herbs.
- Pressing down with your fingers, remove any more liquid from the cucumber that you can. You will end up with about one cup of cucumber.
- Fold the strained cucumber into the yogurt mixture.
- Taste, adding lemon juice to taste. Yogurt can vary in tartness, so adding lemon to taste is important. Season with pepper and more salt if needed.
- If you want more richness, stir in a drizzle of olive oil. You can also drizzle olive oil over the top in a circular motion right before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
- For the best texture, be sure to strain the grated cucumber well to remove excess moisture.
- You can substitute vegan yogurt or thick low-fat yogurt if preferred.
- Use a garlic press for the finest garlic mince and best distribution of flavor.
- Tzatziki can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
