How to Make Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki is a simple Greek yogurt sauce that adds creamy, tangy flavor to everything from grilled meats to grain bowls. This easy version is made with actual pantry staples, so it comes together in minutes with minimal effort!
I will admit that my way of making tzatziki sauce if not the most authentic, however, I like to keep things as easy as possible while still maintaining a delicious flavor! If you have ever had the Trader Joe’s tzatziki sauce, this one is copied after that a little bit (but it is not vegan!). I diced the cucumbers in chunks for added texture like in the Trader Joe’s version!
I almost never had fresh dill on hand, because it unfortunately goes bad before I can use it all. So I used dry dill here for ease. If you have fresh on hand, definitely use it!
Ingredients You Need
- Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best flavor and texture. It’s thick, creamy, and tangy, making the perfect base of the sauce.
- Cucumber: English cucumbers are ideal since they have fewer seeds and a thin skin (no peeling needed!). Dice them finely for even distribution.
- Lemon Juice: A fresh squeeze brightens up the sauce. Start with a little and add more to taste.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the flavors meld. Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil if possible.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch. Start with one clove and add more if you like it strong.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together. Start small and adjust to taste.
- Dill: Fresh dill adds the best flavor, but dried works well too. If using dried, start with about 2 teaspoons. I honestly never had fresh dill on hand, so dried it is!
Variations
- Yogurt: Use a full-fat plain Greek yogurt for the right consistency. You can also use regular full-fat plain yogurt but it will be more watery.
- Cucumber: Instead of dicing, you can use grated cucumber and squeeze excess moisture out using paper towels.
- Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them! Freshly chopped parsley or chopped fresh mint, they would both go great here.
How to Make Tzatziki Sauce at Home
For the full recipe and instructions, see below.
- Prep the Cucumber: Dice it finely so it blends evenly into the sauce.
- Mix Everything Together: In a bowl, combine the yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and dill. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Taste and Adjust: Add more salt, lemon juice, or garlic if needed. Let it sit for at least 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
How to Serve Tzatziki Sauce
This easy tzatziki sauce is incredibly versatile. Use it as:
- A dip with pita, crackers, or raw veggies
- A sauce for grilled chicken, lamb, beef, or shrimp
- A topping for gyros, shawarma, or falafel
- A dressing for Mediterranean-style bowls or salads
- A spread on sandwiches or wraps
I recommend adding it to bowls like my Mediterranean chicken quinoa bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Traditional tzatziki sauce is made with thick Greek yogurt, so I recommend using that if possible.
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It may separate slightly, just stir before serving.
If you’re using an English cucumber, there’s no need. If you’re using a standard cucumber, you may want to peel and remove seeds to avoid excess water and bitterness.
Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Prep the cucumber by dicing it into small pieces.
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic clove, salt and dill.
- Stir well, and taste. Adjust the sauce according to your liking with salt.
