YT Recipe

Greek Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Tzatziki Sauce is a easy Greek recipe that serves 8. 80 calories per serving. Recipe by Natashas Kitchen on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 1 hr | Total: 1 hr 25 min

Cost: $3.33 total, $0.42 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1/2 English cucumber English Cucumber (peeled and diced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt (for drawing out cucumber moisture)
  • 2 cups Plain Greek Yogurt (full‑fat or 2% works best)
  • 1/3 cup Fresh Dill (chopped finely)
  • 4 cloves Garlic Cloves (grated)
  • 1.5 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (squeezed from a fresh lemon)
  • 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (high‑quality)
  • to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cucumber

    Peel half of an English cucumber, then dice it into small, uniform pieces using a chef's knife.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Salt and rest the cucumber

    Transfer the diced cucumber to a small bowl, sprinkle ½ teaspoon of salt over it, stir lightly, and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

    Time: PT15M

  3. Drain the cucumber

    Place the salted cucumber in a bowl lined with cheesecloth (or a fine‑mesh strainer) and squeeze firmly to extract as much liquid as possible.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Mix the yogurt base

    In a mixing bowl combine 2 cups of plain Greek yogurt, 1/3 cup chopped fresh dill, the grated garlic, 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Combine cucumber with yogurt mixture

    Add the squeezed cucumber (including any remaining bits) to the yogurt mixture, drizzle in 3 tablespoons extra‑virgin olive oil, and mix thoroughly. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Chill

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to let the flavors meld.

    Time: PT1H

    Temperature: 4°C

Nutrition Facts

Calories
80
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
2.5 g
Fat
5.5 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Dairy, Garlic

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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Greek Tzatziki Sauce

Recipe by Natashas Kitchen

A classic Greek tzatziki sauce made with fresh cucumber, Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and extra‑virgin olive oil. Perfect as a dip for pita, a topping for grilled meats, or a refreshing side for vegetables.

EasyGreekServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 30m
Prep
0m
Cook
11m
Cleanup
1h 41m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.33
Total cost
$0.42
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • • Squeezing out the cucumber moisture with cheesecloth is essential for a thick, non‑watery tzatziki.
  • • Refrigerating for at least one hour allows the flavors to develop fully.

Safety Warnings

  • • Use a stable cutting board and keep fingers away from the grater blade.
  • • Ensure the cheesecloth is clean to avoid bacterial contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Greek Tzatziki Sauce in Greek cuisine?

A

Tzatziki dates back to ancient Greece where yogurt, cucumber, and herbs were combined to create a cooling accompaniment for grilled meats and bread. It reflects the Mediterranean emphasis on fresh vegetables, dairy, and olive oil, and is a staple at family meals and festive gatherings.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Greek Tzatziki Sauce within Greece?

A

In the islands, tzatziki often includes more lemon juice and sometimes a splash of vinegar for extra tang. In mainland Greece, a thicker version with more yogurt and less cucumber is common, while some regions add mint or a hint of crushed walnuts.

cultural
Q

How is Greek Tzatziki Sauce traditionally served in Greece?

A

It is traditionally served chilled as a mezze dip alongside warm pita, as a topping for souvlaki, gyros, and grilled fish, and also as a refreshing side for roasted vegetables during summer meals.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations is Greek Tzatziki Sauce typically enjoyed in Greek culture?

A

Tzatziki appears at everyday family meals, but it is especially popular during summer barbecues, Easter feasts, and religious festivals where grilled lamb or pork is served.

cultural
Q

What makes Greek Tzatziki Sauce special or unique in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

Its combination of tangy yogurt, crisp cucumber, fresh dill, and high‑quality olive oil creates a balance of creamy, cool, and herbaceous flavors that complement the bold spices of Mediterranean dishes while providing a probiotic‑rich, low‑calorie option.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Greek Tzatziki Sauce?

A

Common errors include not draining the cucumber enough, which makes the dip watery, and over‑mixing the garlic which can become bitter. Also, using low‑fat yogurt can result in a less creamy texture.

technical
Q

Why does this Greek Tzatziki Sauce recipe use grated garlic instead of minced garlic?

A

Grated garlic distributes more evenly throughout the yogurt, giving a smoother texture and a milder, less pungent flavor compared to minced pieces that can create pockets of sharpness.

technical
Q

Can I make Greek Tzatziki Sauce ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, tzatziki improves after a few hours. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir gently before serving to reincorporate any settled liquid.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Greek Tzatziki Sauce?

A

The dip should be thick yet creamy, with visible specks of diced cucumber and dill. It should have a pale ivory color with a slight sheen from the olive oil and no excess water pooling on the surface.

technical
Q

How do I know when Greek Tzatziki Sauce is done cooking?

A

Since there is no cooking, the key indicator is the chilling time: after at least one hour in the refrigerator, the flavors will have melded and the dip will be cool and thick. Taste for seasoning before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Natashas Kitchen specialize in?

A

Natashas Kitchen focuses on approachable, home‑cooked recipes from around the world, emphasizing fresh ingredients, clear step‑by‑step instructions, and practical tips for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Natashas Kitchen's approach to Greek cooking differ from other Greek cooking channels?

A

Natashas Kitchen presents Greek dishes with a modern, simplified twist, using readily available ingredients and minimal equipment, whereas many traditional Greek channels may rely on specialty tools or more elaborate techniques.

channel
More like this:Greek RecipesSauce RecipesMore by Natashas Kitchen

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