I’d like to think that there’s nothing in this world that doesn’t go with tzatziki. My tzatziki recipe – based on the traditional Greek yogurt sauce – doesn’t stray too far from the original. But it remains low-carb, gluten-free, and oh so delicious. You can use it as a gyro sauce recipe or as a dip for vegetable sticks or, my personal favorite, zucchini fries. The possibilities for this tzatziki sauce recipe are endless.
What Is Tzatziki Sauce?
Tzatziki dip is a creamy Greek sauce popularised both in the Mediterranean regions of Europe and the Middle East. With a cool, yogurt cucumber sauce base, the traditional tzatziki sauce recipe is generally seasoned with dill, salt and pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Though there are plenty of variations on the classic. In Greece especially, it’s most commonly used as a greek sauce for gyro, as an accompaniment to souvlaki, or as part of a mezze.
What Is the Difference Between Tzatziki and Yogurt Sauce
Traditionally, the core difference is the extra ingredients of tzatziki. Both sauces have the same yogurt and cucumber base. But a Greek yogurt sauce has fewer additional ingredients. It is unlikely to include lemon juice, dill, garlic, olive oil, etc. On the other hand, this homemade tzatziki sauce is bursting with extra flavors that you’ll only find in Greek tzatziki recipes.
Is Tzatziki Sauce Healthy
The Mediterranean diet is noted for how healthy it is. And tzatziki – being a Mediterranean yogurt sauce – is surprisingly good for you. Its base of Greek yogurt is naturally high in protein. And the additional fresh ingredients are generally high in essential vitamins and minerals. Tzatziki dip is naturally low-calorie, low in cholesterol, and high in Vitamin A and calcium.
Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients
How to Make Tzatziki Sauce
There are just a few simple steps for the best tzatziki recipe.
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber
Grate the cucumber with a box grater and optionally sprinkle it with salt (this will help extract the excess liquid). Set aside for 10 minutes. I say that the salt is optional because the cucumber juice that you squeeze from the cucumber is delightful as a drink. But not so much if it’s salty! Place the rested cucumber into nut milk back or several layers of cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Alternatively, you can salt the cucumbers and leave them in a colander to naturally drain with the help of gravity. This will provide the best texture for the cucumber. However, this will take a far longer resting time (like overnight!), so I usually avoid it.
Step 2: Prepare the Remaining Ingredients
Finely chop the dill and grate or mince the garlic. If you need help peeling garlic, I’ve tried and tested several methods.
Step 3: Mix the Tzatziki Sauce
Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. For the best flavor, allow the Greek sauce to marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours but even better overnight. This will give the flavors a chance to meld together properly and tastes better than directly after making it. Before serving, give it one last taste and adjust any of the ingredients if needed (more salt, acidity, etc). Then drizzle with a bit of additional olive oil, and enjoy!
Can You Freeze Tzatziki Sauce
I do not recommend freezing the tziki sauce. But if you need to, pour it into a freezer-safe, air-tight container. It will keep in your freezer for 3 months. Keep in mind the texture will change upon thawing.
What to Eat with Tzatziki Sauce
Spread it liberally on souvlaki/gyros wraps (it’s the ultimate gyro sauce!) and with calamari. Plus, there are still tons of other ways to enjoy this authentic Greek tzatziki sauce:
As an appetizer/dip with crudites or Greek pita for dipping. For dipping with fries and potato wedges – even zucchini or eggplant fries. Spread in sandwiches, burgers, or wraps. Served as part of a mezze platter alongside dishes like dolma, greek salad, etc. As part of a grain bowl alongside your grain of choice, fresh veggies, olives, etc. You can also use it as tzatziki dressing. Serve as a side to Stuffed Vegetables (Gemista/Yemista) and other Greek food.
Other Dip & Sauce Recipes
Simple Spinach Yogurt Dip (Borani)Easy Eggplant Red Pepper Dip (Ajvar)Herby Labneh Dip with Roasted TomatoesBaked Spinach Artichoke Dip
If you try this easy tzatziki recipe, let me know how it goes in the comments below. I’d appreciate a recipe card rating and would love to see your recipe recreations – tag me on Instagram @Alphafoodie!
