This Tzatziki Sauce is everything you need to elevate your meals with a burst of fresh, tangy flavor. Made with creamy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber, and a touch of garlic, it’s a simple yet irresistible recipe that pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to fresh veggies. Whether you use it as a dip, spread, or sauce, this Mediterranean classic is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Oriana’s Thoughts On The Recipe
Let me tell you, this Tzatziki Sauce is pure magic in a bowl! I first learned how to make it from my ex-boss, who is 100% Greek, and let me just say, this recipe is the real deal. She shared her family’s traditional method with me, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
What I love most about this sauce is how fresh and creamy it is. It’s got that perfect balance of tangy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber, and a garlicky kick that just works with everything.
And the best part? It’s so easy to make! You don’t need fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Plus, it’s healthy! My kids love using it as a dip for veggies, and I love knowing they’re snacking on something wholesome. Honestly, this sauce has become a staple in my kitchen, and I know it will in yours, too.
What Is Tzatziki Sauce?
Tzatziki sauce is a classic Mediterranean condiment that originates from Greek cuisine. It’s a creamy, tangy, and refreshing sauce made primarily with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and dill. Plus, it’s certainly healthier than mayonnaise or ranch dressing. You can slather it on your sandwiches, wraps, or even tacos. It’s also fantastic as a dip for fresh vegetables, pita bread, or chips, making it a popular choice for snacks or appetizers.
What I Love About This Recipe
![Tzatziki Sauce [Greek Yogurt Sauce] in a bowl garnished with fresh dill](https://mommyshomecooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Easy-Tzatziki-Sauce-Greek-Yogurt-Sauce-20.jpg)
Ingredients You’ll Need, Substitutions & Notes
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
- Hothouse Cucumber (English Cucumber): Adds a refreshing crunch. The thin skin means you don’t need to peel it.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat for a rich, creamy texture, but low-fat works too. Avoid regular yogurt as it’s too runny. For a dairy-free version, use your favorite Greek-style dairy-free yogurt. Make sure it is plain and unsweetened.
- Fresh Garlic: Gives that classic tzatziki bite. Adjust the amount to your preference.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Dill (Fresh or Dry): The traditional herb for tzatziki. Fresh dill is ideal, but dry works in a pinch.
- Salt: Brings out the flavors and balances the tang of the yogurt.
![Tzatziki Sauce [Greek Yogurt Sauce] in a white bowl with flatbread on the side.](https://mommyshomecooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Easy-Tzatziki-Sauce-Greek-Yogurt-Sauce-24.jpg)
Process Overview: Step-by-Step
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
- Grate the Cucumber
Use a box grater to grate the cucumbers manually (preferred), or you can use a small food processor to finely chop the cucumber if you prefer. Toss the grated cucumbers with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher or sea salt. Then, place the cucumber on a towel or cheesecloth and gently squeeze out the excess water.
- Mix
In a medium bowl, combine cucumbers, Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, dill, and salt until well combined.
- Cover and Chill
Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help thicken the sauce and allow the flavors to meld together.
![Tzatziki Sauce [Greek Yogurt Sauce] in bowl drizzled with olive oil.](https://mommyshomecooking.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Easy-Tzatziki-Sauce-Greek-Yogurt-Sauce-25.jpg)
Potential Challenges & Pro Tips
- Watery Sauce: Too much liquid from the cucumber can water down your sauce. Pro Tip: After grating the cucumber, squeeze it really well to remove as much water as possible. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to do this effectively.
- Overpowering Garlic Flavor: Raw garlic can sometimes taste too strong. Pro Tip: Start with half the amount of garlic and adjust to taste. Finely mince it or grate it to distribute the flavor evenly.
- Too Thick or Too Thin: The sauce might not have the texture you want. Pro Tip: If it’s too thick, add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice. If it’s too thin, add more Greek yogurt.
Storing Instructions
Store the Tzatziki sauce well-covered in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Squeeze the grated cucumber thoroughly to remove excess liquid, and don’t skip this step.
Yes, but reduce the amount by half, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
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Recipe Card
Easy Tzatziki Sauce [Greek Yogurt Sauce]
Ingredients
- 1 Hot House (English) cucumber
- 17.6 oz (500 g) Plain Greek (I use whole milk yogurt)
- 2 – 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill (you can use dry or fresh. If using dry add 2 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt salt
Important
Don’t forget to check out the step-by-step photos above in the post—they’ll guide you through the process and make everything super clear!
Instructions
- Use a box grater to grate the cucumbers manually, or you can use a small food processor to finely chop the cucumber, if you prefer. Toss the grated cucumbers with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher or sea salt. Then, place the cucumber on a towel or cheesecloth and gently squeeze out the excess water.
- In a medium bowl, combine cucumbers, Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, dill, and salt until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help thicken the sauce and allow the flavors to meld together.
-
- Watery Sauce: Too much liquid from the cucumber can water down your sauce. Pro Tip: After grating the cucumber, squeeze it really well to remove as much water as possible. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to do this effectively.
-
- Overpowering Garlic Flavor: Raw garlic can sometimes taste too strong. Pro Tip: Start with half the amount of garlic and adjust to taste. Finely mince it or grate it to distribute the flavor evenly.
-
- Too Thick or Too Thin: The sauce might not have the texture you want. Pro Tip: If it’s too thick, add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice. If it’s too thin, add more Greek yogurt.
- I recommend using a Microplane zester to grate the garlic.
- For an extra thick sauce, I like to use whole milk Greek yogurt but can also use fat-free or low-fat if you prefer.
- Refrigerate the sauce at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.
Eggless Baking Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve asked, and I’ve answered! Read on for a handful of answers to the most frequently asked questions about eggless baking.
Originally posted in April 2013, the post content was edited to add more helpful information, and there was no change to the recipe in January 2025.
Muy Buena alternativa! Me encanta esta receta!
Me encanta el greek yogurt, gracias por compartir la receta, esta buenisima!
Namaste!ॐ
http://mamaholistica.com
Love greek food and love Tzatziki sauce but have never tried to make it. Thanks for the recipe!!
Oriana, no sabes lo mucho que me gusta esta salsa. Hubo un tiempo en que frecuentaba un restaurante griego y comia montones de tzatziki con panes pita, con todo!
Pues aún no me aventuro a probar este Yogurt pero esta receta se ve deliciosa.
Curiosamente el que me comento sobre los beneficios del Yogurt Griego es mi hijo, que ultimamente ha cambiado su programa de alimentación porque hace mucho ejercicio. Inicialmente me reusaba a probarlo acostumbrada al Yogurt con sabor, pero ahora como snack me encanta. Lo probare en la receta que nos compartes. De hecho se lo voy a prepara a Jorgito..
Me encanto esta salsa, nunca la he probado. Me parece que es buena idea para salir de la misma rutina de siempre. Gracias por compartirla.
That sauce not only looks delicious, but a really light option, thanks for sharing 🙂
Yummi… muy cremosa, y deliciosa!
Se ve deliciosa y cremosa. La tengo que tratar. Gracias por compartir esta receta.
I too have never heard of this, but it sounds Delish!! Into my recipes file it goes. BB2U
Me ha encantado esta receta! Y más que es saludable y puedo guardarla para otras recetas!
Never heard of this kind of sauce before, sounds good though!
mmmm! This looks amazing!
I love Tzatziki! So good with chickpea burgers 🙂
I love this sauce! And, now I want a gyro…which will NOT help me lose weight!