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A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce with visible cucumber and dill, served with flatbread in the background

Fresh Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

Fresh creamy tzatziki sauce is a classic Greek condiment that delivers a perfect balance of cool, tangy, and savory flavors.
Made with thick yogurt, crisp cucumber, and aromatic garlic, this sauce is both refreshing and rich in texture.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 80

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 medium cucumber, grated and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Grater or food processor
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Cucumber
    Grate the cucumber using a box grater or food processor, then place it in a strainer or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
    A person slicing a peeled cucumber on a cutting board with a knife
  2. Combine the Base
    Add the Greek yogurt to a mixing bowl and give it a quick stir to smooth it out.
  3. Add Ingredients
    Mix in the drained cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and chopped dill.
    A person squeezing fresh lemon juice into a small measuring cup using a handheld citrus press
  4. Season & Mix
    Add salt and black pepper, then stir everything together until well combined and creamy.
  5. Chill & Serve
    Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors develop, then taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve.
    A close-up of creamy tzatziki sauce topped with olive oil and fresh herbs ready to serve

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Use extra-thick Greek yogurt for the creamiest consistency.
  • If using regular yogurt, strain it beforehand to remove excess moisture.
  • Garlic flavor intensifies over time—start small if you prefer a milder taste.
  • For smoother texture, finely grate the cucumber; for more bite, keep it slightly chunky.
  • Substitute lemon juice with vinegar for a sharper flavor profile.