Tzatziki sauce is simple to make and you’ll get the best results mixing it up fresh at home. Though you can purchase it widely from any grocery store, the flavors really shine when you take the time to make it from scratch. We’ve shared this easy Greek tzatziki sauce recipe, but you can add in other ingredients as preferred for added complexity. Many recipes call for the inclusion of freshly squeezed lemon juice, for example, to lift the flavors.
You need to squeeze as much water out of your cucumber as possible. Any remaining water will cause the sauce to split and separate. And there are actually lots of different varieties of cucumbers to choose from when making your sauce. English cucumbers tend to be the go-to type for this recipe. Long and slender, with sweet, firm flesh, they’re one of the most versatile cucumbers, and you don’t need to peel them as the skin isn’t bitter. Any leftover cucumber can be used in a number of appetizing dishes, from cucumber gazpacho to cucumber rounds with salmon, for a cucumber-themed start to your evening with friends and family.
You will need to ideally use full-fat Greek yogurt for this recipe, as regular yogurt is too runny in texture and the dip won’t hold its structure. Classically, this recipe is made using strained yogurt, but any regular Greek yogurt you can source from the grocery store will work well.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Tzatziki sauce can be paired with a wide number of dishes, both from within Greek cuisine and further afield. Enjoy it as a straightforward snack with fresh chopped vegetables to dip into the sauce, or alongside a helping of toasted pita bread. Greek meatballs are a delicious midweek meal, and pair perfectly with the creamy, fresh flavors of tzatziki. Other Mediterranean dishes, such as tabbouleh and falafel, also complement the refreshing flavors of tzatziki. Lastly, it’s irresistible with seafood dishes, such as seared salmon, as its cool and creamy flavors stand up to the richness of the fish.
For added presentation, some chefs will drizzle olive oil over the top of the tzatziki to add an appealing color pop to the sauce. Fresh dill is also commonly used to garnish this dip and can be used in place of or with a mix of mint leaves.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Once you’ve made this tzatziki sauce recipe, it will keep in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to extend its storage life further, then you can hold off adding the salt when mixing the sauce together, as this will draw out too much moisture during storage. As mentioned above, it’s vital to squeeze as much water out of the cucumber as possible, as this will help to prevent spoilage and keep your sauce fresher for longer.
