How to Make the Perfect Authentic Greek Tzatziki Dip
Greek · Easy · 15 min · 6 servings
This cool and refreshing Greek yogurt dip is packed with grated cucumber, garlic, fresh dill, and a drizzle of quality olive oil. It is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, warm pita bread, or fresh vegetables and comes together in minutes.
Why this recipe works
This Authentic Greek Tzatziki Dip recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 90 calories with 5g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 500 grams full fat Greek yogurt strained
- 1 large cucumber grated and squeezed dry
- 3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumber
Grate the cucumber on the large holes of a box grater, then place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is critical to prevent the tzatziki from becoming watery and thin.
Step 2: Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strained Greek yogurt with the squeezed cucumber and minced garlic. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture looks uniform.
Step 3: Season and Finish
Add the white wine vinegar, chopped fresh dill, and a generous pinch of salt to the yogurt mixture. Stir well, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more garlic or vinegar to your preference.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Drizzle the olive oil over the top and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled with a final drizzle of oil and a sprig of dill for garnish.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh dill → fresh mint leaves, which are also traditional in some regional Greek variations
- white wine vinegar → fresh lemon juice for a slightly brighter and less acidic flavor profile
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using regular yogurt instead of thick strained Greek yogurt, which results in a runny and watery dip
- Adding the garlic right before serving instead of letting it mellow in the dip for at least an hour
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 90 calories, 5g protein, 6g carbs, 5g fat, 1g fiber.
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