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Homemade Tzatziki

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A cool and creamy Greek-inspired sauce made with thick yogurt, crisp cucumber, garlic, lemon, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Serve it chilled as a refreshing dip or sauce with pita, vegetables, wraps, and grilled dishes.

Ingredients

  • Plain Greek yogurt
  • English cucumber
  • Fresh garlic
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Fresh dill
  • Fresh mint, optional
  • Salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Grate the English cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much excess liquid as possible.
  2. Add the Greek yogurt to a mixing bowl. Stir in the minced or finely grated garlic, fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Add the well-drained cucumber and finely chopped fresh dill. Add chopped fresh mint if desired and stir until evenly combined.
  4. Taste the tzatziki and adjust the lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper as needed. Stir in additional olive oil if a richer finish is desired.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For more developed flavor, chill for 1 to 2 hours.
  6. Stir the chilled tzatziki before transferring it to a serving bowl. Finish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and additional fresh dill or mint if desired.

Notes

  • Squeeze the grated cucumber thoroughly to prevent the tzatziki from becoming watery.
  • Use thick Greek yogurt for the creamiest consistency.
  • Raw garlic can become stronger as tzatziki rests, so adjust the amount according to preference.
  • For dairy-free tzatziki, substitute a thick, unsweetened, neutral-flavored dairy-free yogurt.
  • Fresh mint can replace some or all of the dill, and lemon zest can be added for extra citrus aroma.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days and stir before serving.
  • Freezing is not recommended because the yogurt and cucumber can become watery or grainy after thawing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/homemade-tzatziki/