1cupfull-fat Greek yogurtPlain, full-fat provides the best creamy texture.
1medium cucumberPeeled, seeded, and grated. English or Persian cucumbers work best.
2clovesgarlicminced or pressed
1tbspextra virgin olive oil
1tbspfresh lemon juice
1tbspfresh dillchopped
0.5tspsea saltor to taste
0.25tspblack pepperfreshly ground, optional
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumber: Grate the peeled and seeded cucumber using a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a piece of cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve. Squeeze firmly to remove as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery dip.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the strained cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and chopped fresh dill.
Mix and Season: Stir everything together until it is well combined. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, but it can be served immediately if you're short on time.
Serve: Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a sauce for grilled meats like souvlaki or gyros.
Notes
Squeezing is Key: Don't skip squeezing the water from the cucumber. It's the most important step for a thick, creamy Tzatziki sauce.Flavor Variations: Feel free to substitute fresh mint for dill, or use a combination of both for a more complex flavor.Storage: Store the Tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor will deepen over time.