Authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with this Authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce recipe. This creamy, tangy sauce combines the richness of Greek yogurt and sour cream with fresh, crunchy cucumbers and aromatic herbs. It's perfect as a dip for pita bread, a topping for grilled meats, or a refreshing side to any Mediterranean dish. This traditional condiment is not just a culinary delight but also a healthy addition to your meals, making it a must-try for any home cook.
4
Servings
200
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Greek yogurt
2 cups (strained of excess water)
Sour cream
1 cup
Cucumbers
2 (peeled and grated, strained of excess juice)
Fresh dill
1/2 cup (chopped)
Extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon
Garlic cloves
4 (minced)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon
White pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the strained Greek yogurt and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
2
Peel and grate the cucumbers, then use a clean cloth or paper towel to strain them, removing excess juice. This step ensures your tzatziki is not watery.
3
Add the grated cucumbers and freshly chopped dill to the yogurt mixture and fold gently to combine.
4
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and white pepper until well combined.
5
Pour the olive oil mixture into the yogurt cucumber mixture and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least two hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7
Once chilled, stir the tzatziki again before serving to maintain the creamy texture and enjoy it with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or as a sauce on your favorite grilled meats.
Nutrition Information
17.5
Fat
5
Carbs
8.75
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Authentic Greek Tzatziki Sauce?
It is a creamy and tangy traditional Greek condiment made with Greek yogurt, sour cream, cucumbers, garlic, and fresh herbs.
What are the primary ingredients in this tzatziki recipe?
The main ingredients include Greek yogurt, sour cream, cucumbers, fresh dill, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and white pepper.
Why is it important to strain the Greek yogurt?
Straining the Greek yogurt removes excess water, which ensures the sauce has a thick, rich, and creamy consistency.
How should I prepare the cucumbers for this sauce?
The cucumbers should be peeled and grated, then strained through a clean cloth or paper towel to remove as much juice as possible.
What happens if I do not strain the cucumbers?
If you do not strain the cucumbers, their high water content will make the tzatziki sauce thin and watery rather than creamy.
Can I substitute the apple cider vinegar?
While apple cider vinegar provides a specific tang, lemon juice is a common and traditional substitute in Greek cooking.
How long does the tzatziki need to chill before serving?
The sauce should be refrigerated for at least two hours to allow the flavors of the garlic, dill, and vinegar to fully meld.
What are the best foods to pair with tzatziki?
It pairs perfectly with pita bread, fresh vegetables, grilled meats like souvlaki or gyros, and various Mediterranean dishes.
Is this tzatziki sauce recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains dairy but no meat products.
How many calories are in one serving of this tzatziki?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What is the protein content of this recipe?
There are 8.75 grams of protein per serving, thanks largely to the Greek yogurt.
How much fat is in this tzatziki sauce?
Each serving contains 17.5 grams of fat.
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
Fresh dill is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried dill if necessary; usually, you use about one-third the amount of dried herb compared to fresh.
Why does this recipe include sour cream?
Sour cream is added to provide extra richness and a smooth texture that complements the tanginess of the Greek yogurt.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 minced garlic cloves to provide a robust and authentic flavor.
Is this sauce considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy addition to meals, providing protein and probiotics from the yogurt and healthy fats from olive oil.
What type of oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is best for its flavor profile and authentic Mediterranean quality.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to produce 4 servings.
Why is white pepper used instead of black pepper?
White pepper is often used in light-colored sauces like tzatziki to provide spice without leaving visible black specks.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers completely?
Yes, the recipe suggests peeling the cucumbers to achieve a more uniform, creamy texture.
How should I store leftover tzatziki?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other food odors.
How long will homemade tzatziki last in the fridge?
When stored properly, it typically stays fresh for 3 to 5 days.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, you would need to substitute the Greek yogurt and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or soy-based yogurt.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Should I stir the sauce after it has been chilled?
Yes, stir the tzatziki again before serving to ensure the consistency remains creamy and the ingredients are well distributed.
What makes this 'Authentic Greek' style?
The use of thick strained yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, and the specific method of preparing the cucumbers are hallmark traits of traditional Greek tzatziki.
Can I add other herbs besides dill?
While dill is traditional, some variations of tzatziki also include fresh mint for a different refreshing note.
How much salt is in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt, which helps draw moisture from the cucumbers and seasons the yogurt base.
Can I use a food processor for the cucumbers?
You can use a food processor to grate them, but be careful not to over-process them into a puree; they should still have some texture.