🥒 Tzatziki / Cucumber Yogurt Dip (Mediterranean Yogurt Sauce)
🥛 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
1½ cups Greek yogurt (thick and full-fat preferred)
1 medium cucumber, grated
2–3 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp lemon juice (or white vinegar)
1 Tbsp fresh dill or mint (finely chopped)
Salt to taste
Optional: a drizzle of olive oil and pinch of paprika to garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1 — Prep the cucumber
Grate the cucumber (with skin on or off).
Place in a clean cloth or paper towel.
Squeeze out all excess water — this keeps the tzatziki thick and creamy.
Step 2 — Mix the dip
In a bowl, combine:
Yogurt
Minced garlic
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Salt
Dill or mint
Mix until smooth.
Step 3 — Add cucumber
Stir in the squeezed cucumber until evenly combined.
Step 4 — Chill
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors blend.
🍽️ How to Serve Tzatziki
With grilled chicken, lamb, shawarma, kebabs
As a dip with pita bread or vegetable sticks
In wraps, gyros, or falafel sandwiches
As a side with rice bowls or mediterranean platters
⭐ Tips
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Adjust garlic depending on how strong you like it.
Dill gives a classic Greek flavor; mint gives a Middle Eastern touch.

