Creamy Homemade Tzatziki Sauce with Fresh Cucumbers and Herbs Recipe
A refreshing and creamy Greek tzatziki sauce made with grated cucumber, garlic, vinegar, Greek yogurt, and herbs, perfect as a dip or sauce for pita bread and fresh vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3/4 English cucumber, partially peeled (striped)
- 4 to 5 garlic cloves
- Handful of chopped fresh dill or mint (optional)
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp Early Harvest Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1/4 tsp ground white pepper
Dairy
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
Serving Suggestions
- Warm pita bread for serving
- Sliced vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumber: Use a box grater or a small food processor to grate or finely chop the cucumber. Toss the grated cucumber with 1/2 tsp kosher salt, then spoon it into a cheese cloth or double thickness napkin and squeeze out the excess liquid thoroughly to avoid a watery sauce.
- Mix Garlic and Liquids: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic with the remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt, white vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. Mix well to blend the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained grated cucumber to the garlic mixture. Stir in the Greek yogurt, ground white pepper, and fresh herbs (if using). Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Chill the Sauce: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 30 minutes, up to a couple of hours, to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to the desired consistency.
- Serve: Before serving, stir the sauce to refresh it. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired, and serve with warm pita bread, pita chips, or sliced vegetables.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly squeeze the grated cucumber to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
- The sauce benefits from resting in the fridge as it allows the flavors to meld and the texture to improve.
- Fresh dill or mint adds a nice herbal note, but it can be omitted if preferred.
- Tzatziki is versatile: use as a dip, spread, or sauce with grilled meats and vegetables.
