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Tzatziki Sauce Recipe (Greek Cucumber Yogurt Sauce)

This simple recipe blends thick Greek yogurt with crisp cucumber, fresh garlic, zesty lemon juice, and a touch of dill to create a sauce that elevates almost any dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Condiment, Main Course
Cuisine: Greece
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large cucumber unpeeled
  • 2 cups plain full-fat Greek yogurt for best creaminess
  • 2 large garlic cloves finely minced (add more to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill minced (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Box grater or food processor (for cucumber)
  • Cheesecloth or thin tea towel (to squeeze excess liquid)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Airtight container (for storage)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cucumber.
    Wash the cucumber well and grate it using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated cucumber in the center of a cheesecloth or thin tea towel. Twist tightly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This is the key step to prevent watery tzatziki, so take your time to remove the moisture.
  2. Combine Ingredients.
    In a large mixing bowl, add the drained cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, fresh dill, and salt.
  3. Mix Until Smooth.
    Stir everything together with a spoon or spatula until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more garlic for boldness, extra lemon juice for tang, or additional dill for a stronger herbal note.
  4. Chill the Sauce.
    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally 2 hours) to let the flavors blend. For the best flavor, make it ahead and let it chill overnight.
  5. Serve.
    Stir once more before serving, then enjoy with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or alongside your favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Notes

Tips & Variations Drain Well:
Removing excess water from cucumber is the secret to thick, creamy sauce.
Garlic Lover’s Version: Add an extra clove or two for more punch.
Dill Options: Fresh dill gives the best flavor, but dried works in a pinch (just use less).
Sour Cream Swap: Replace Greek yogurt with full-fat sour cream for a richer dip.
Extra Crunch: Stir in chopped cucumber at the end if you want more texture.
Thinner Dressing: Mix in a splash of water or olive oil to use as a salad dressing.
How to Use Tzatziki Sauce Dip: Serve with pita bread, crackers, or raw vegetables.
Sandwich Spread: Use in wraps, burgers, or gyros instead of mayo.
Grilled Meats & Veggies: Drizzle over souvlaki, chicken, lamb, or roasted vegetables.
Potatoes: Dollop on baked potatoes with a sprinkle of feta cheese. Snack Box Addition: Add it to a mezze platter with falafel, olives, and cheese.