Tzatziki is a classic Greek dip that epitomizes Mediterranean cuisine’s fresh and healthful elements. This dip is celebrated for its creamy texture and refreshing taste. It is made primarily from strained yogurt mixed with cucumbers, garlic, salt, olive oil, and often a touch of lemon juice and dill. The cucumbers are grated and then drained or squeezed to remove excess water before combining with the yogurt, ensuring a thick and rich consistency.
Tzatziki is a versatile condiment served with grilled meats, a spread for sandwiches, or a cooling dip for vegetables and pita bread. It’s particularly popular in the summer, often featured as part of a meze platter or enjoyed alongside traditional dishes like gyros or souvlaki. Not only is tzatziki delicious, but it also offers health benefits, including being a good source of protein and probiotics. This dip captures the essence of Greek culinary simplicity, where a few quality ingredients come together to create a satisfying and flavorful dish.
AuthorJulia ForesekCategoryAppetizers & Starters, Greek, VegetarianDifficultyIntermediatePrepare the Cucumber:
After peeling and seeding the cucumber, grate or finely chop it. Then, place the grated cucumber in a sieve and press or squeeze to remove excess water. This is an important step to prevent your tzatziki from becoming too watery.
Mix Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the strained Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
Add Herbs and Season:
Stir in the chopped dill or mint. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Tzatziki’s flavor deepens with time, so chilling is a crucial step.
Serve:
Serve the tzatziki chilled. It can be served as a dip with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or as a sauce for grilled meats like lamb, chicken, or fish.
Ingredients
Directions
Prepare the Cucumber:
After peeling and seeding the cucumber, grate or finely chop it. Then, place the grated cucumber in a sieve and press or squeeze to remove excess water. This is an important step to prevent your tzatziki from becoming too watery.
Mix Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the strained Greek yogurt, squeezed cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
Add Herbs and Season:
Stir in the chopped dill or mint. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together. Tzatziki’s flavor deepens with time, so chilling is a crucial step.
Serve:
Serve the tzatziki chilled. It can be served as a dip with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or as a sauce for grilled meats like lamb, chicken, or fish.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
Tzatziki is incredibly versatile. It can be spread on sandwiches, served with grilled or roasted meats, or used as a dip for vegetables and pita chips. Its cooling effect makes it a great complement to spicy dishes or curries.
Beverage Pairing:
- White Wine: A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Greek Assyrtiko complements the freshness of tzatziki.
- Iced Herbal Tea: A chilled mint or chamomile tea pairs nicely with a refreshing and cooling meal.
