Imagine a summer’s day when the sun’s warmth is just right, and a cool breeze whispers through the trees—now, picture that refreshing feeling captured in a sauce. My first bite of tzatziki was a revelation, with its creamy texture and zesty punch, an unexpected dance of garlic and dill that lingered just so. This easy recipe is like a quick hug for your taste buds, ready in a snap, yet full of life and flavor—perfect for when time’s short but cravings are high.
Steps
- Dice the cucumber into small pieces and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle with a bit of salt and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow excess moisture to drain out.
- While waiting, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in another bowl. Stir thoroughly to blend all the ingredients.
- After the cucumber has released its moisture, drain it well. Add the cucumber to the yogurt mixture and mix everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (preferably 2% fat)
- 1 cup finely diced English cucumber, seeds removed
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
FAQ
- Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt for tzatziki sauce?
- While Greek yogurt is recommended for its texture and flavor, it can be substituted with sour cream if needed. Just make sure to adjust the quantities accordingly to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
- Can I use a regular cucumber instead of an English cucumber?
- Yes, you can use a regular cucumber. However, English cucumbers are preferred due to their sweeter taste, which enhances the overall flavor of the tzatziki sauce.
- What distinguishes tzatziki from hummus?
- Tzatziki is based on yogurt and cucumber, giving it a light and refreshing taste. In contrast, hummus is made from chickpeas, resulting in a thicker and heartier dip. Both are delicious but differ significantly in texture and ingredients.
- How should I store leftover tzatziki sauce?
- Store any remaining tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days for the best freshness.
- Is tzatziki sauce a healthy option?
- Absolutely! Tzatziki sauce is low in calories and, when paired with vegetables or other dippables, it makes for a satisfying and nutritious snack.
Tips
- To achieve the best flavor and consistency, opt for Greek yogurt, which not only enhances the taste but also boosts the protein content of the sauce.
- Use English cucumbers for a sweeter flavor that complements this recipe well. If using regular cucumbers, ensure they are finely diced to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- Allow the salted diced cucumber to sit for 10 minutes to effectively release excess moisture, which prevents the sauce from becoming too watery.
- Store any leftover tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls – While many people have these at home, if someone doesn’t, they might choose to purchase a set.
- Fine mesh strainer or colander – Used for draining the cucumbers, especially if they don’t have one suitable for small pieces.
- Garlic press – For mincing garlic efficiently, if not already owned.
