Garlic Tzatziki Sauce

Garlic Tzatziki Sauce is a cool, creamy Greek dip made with thick yogurt, fresh cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. This refreshing and tangy sauce is a perfect match for grilled meats, gyros, veggies, or as a bold-flavored spread in wraps and sandwiches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and quick to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Fresh, garlicky, and cooling — ideal for hot days or spicy dishes
• Pairs well with a wide variety of meals and snacks
• Naturally low-carb and high-protein
• Stores well for several days for make-ahead convenience

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Greek yogurt
• English cucumber
• Garlic cloves
• Lemon juice
• Fresh dill
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Grate and drain cucumber: Grate the cucumber using a fine grater. Place it in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much water as possible.
2. Prepare garlic: Mince or grate the garlic finely. You can adjust the amount depending on how strong you like your tzatziki.
3. Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill.
4. Add oil and season: Stir in olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill before serving: Let the sauce rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
6. Stir and serve: Give it a final stir and drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: about 1.5 cups
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Herb swap: Use fresh mint or parsley in place of dill for a different herbal profile
• Roasted garlic: Swap raw garlic for roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor
• Dairy-free: Use a plant-based yogurt alternative for a vegan version
• Extra tangy: Add a splash of white vinegar or more lemon juice
• Spicy version: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or finely chopped fresh chili

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freezing: Not recommended — the yogurt and cucumber can separate after thawing
• Reheating: Not applicable; serve chilled

FAQs

What is tzatziki sauce made of?

Tzatziki is made from strained yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like dill or mint.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but regular yogurt is thinner, so you may want to strain it through cheesecloth for a few hours to thicken it.

Should I peel the cucumber?

Peeling is optional. If using an English cucumber, the peel is thin and usually fine to leave on. For regular cucumbers, peeling is recommended.

How can I make my tzatziki thicker?

Ensure all the liquid is squeezed out of the cucumber and use full-fat Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency.

Can I make tzatziki without garlic?

Yes, but garlic is a key flavor component. Try roasted garlic for a milder taste if raw garlic is too strong.

What can I serve with garlic tzatziki sauce?

It pairs well with grilled meats, pita bread, falafel, vegetables, wraps, gyros, and even as a salad dressing.

How long does homemade tzatziki last?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when refrigerated in an airtight container.

Can I make tzatziki ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours of chilling as the flavors meld together.

What type of cucumber is best for tzatziki?

English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and less water. Just remember to drain them well.

Is tzatziki sauce healthy?

Yes! It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and made with wholesome ingredients like yogurt and cucumber.

Conclusion

Garlic Tzatziki Sauce is a simple yet flavor-packed dip that brings a bright, garlicky freshness to any meal. Whether you’re drizzling it over grilled chicken, scooping it with pita, or adding it to a wrap, this homemade version is guaranteed to elevate your dish with authentic Mediterranean flair.

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