Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Greece with our homemade Tzatziki Sauce recipe. This cool and creamy delight, infused with the essence of cucumber, garlic, and herbs, is the perfect accompaniment to elevate your Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Whether you’re dipping, spreading, or topping, this sauce is sure to add a burst of freshness to every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 large unpeeled cucumber
- 2 cups of plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 2 large cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of minced fresh dill
- ¾ teaspoon of salt
Directions:
- Prepare the Cucumber: Using a box grater or food processor, grate the whole cucumber. Ensure to keep the skin on for added texture and nutrients. Once grated, use a cheesecloth or a tea towel to squeeze out the excess liquid from the shredded cucumber. This step is crucial for achieving the desired thickness and consistency of the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded and drained cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced fresh dill, and salt. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Chill and Let the Flavors Develop: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for a minimum of 2 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to deepen and develop, resulting in a rich and harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve the Tzatziki Sauce alongside your favorite dishes such as pita bread, fresh vegetables, or traditional Greek gyros. The versatility of this sauce makes it a perfect complement to a variety of meals, adding a refreshing and zesty touch to every bite.
Storage: Any leftover Tzatziki Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring you can enjoy its irresistible flavors whenever the craving strikes.
Nutritional Information: (per serving)
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Tzatziki Sauce chilled as a refreshing dip with pita bread, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or cherry tomatoes.
- Use it as a creamy spread in sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Drizzle it over grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables to add a cooling and tangy element to your dishes.
- Pair it with traditional Greek dishes such as souvlaki, moussaka, or spanakopita for an authentic culinary experience.
Storage Tips:
- Store leftover Tzatziki Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Before storing, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce to prevent air exposure and preserve its vibrant green color.
- Avoid freezing Tzatziki Sauce as it can cause the texture to become watery and the flavors to deteriorate.
