Tzatziki is a Greek yoghurt based dip that you can find all across Greece. Even though this recipe is orginally from Greece, it can be found today in kitchens all around the world. This easy tzaziki recipe can be made in minutes, and requires little to no ingredients.
The beauty of Tzaziki is that it can be paired with grilled meats, added in a Gyros, used as a dip for pita bread (or tortillas), … The options are endless and the sky is the limit when it comes to this recipe.
Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. Clicking on this link is at no extra cost for you and will help me with this blog and feed my pup.
Easy Tzaziki Recipe
Origins of Tzaziki
Tzatziki “tsah-SEE-kee,” has been enjoyed for centuries in Greece and in the Mediterranean region.
Tzaziki is derived from the Turkish word “cacık”. It’s not really surprising that the word Tzaziki is derived from Turkish, and this goes to show the historical influence of the Ottoman Empire in this region.
Traditionally, tzatziki was created using only ingredients that could be easily found in the Greek countryside. Since then, this dish has grown in popularity and many variations exist.
Difference between Greek Yogurt and Plain Yogurt
Greek yogurt and plain yogurt are both made from milk. However, there is a difference in the making process which then impacts the texture, uses, and nutritional content.
- Straining process : Greek yogurt is made by straining regular yoghurt to remove most of the liquid. Plain yogurt is not subject to the same straining process. Thus Greek yogurt will naturally be thicker than plain yogurt.
- Texture and creaminess : The extensive straining process results in Greek yogurt being much thicker and creamier. Plain yogurt on the other end will be more liquid and less thick as Greek yogurt. This also results in the flavors being stronger in Greek yogurt as there is less liquid than in plain yogurt.
- Nutritional content : Greek yogurt will have more protein compared to plain yogurt.
INGREDIENTS
The ingredients required for this recipe are :
- Cucumber
- Lemon
- Dill
- Garlic
- Salt and Pepper
- Greek Yogurt
STEP 1
Start by peeling (optionnal) and cutting your cucumber. You can also grate your cucumber if you prefer.
STEP 2
Set your cucumber appart and drizzle a little of salt on top of it.
STEP 3
If you’re using fresh dill chop it up thinly.
STEP 4
Grate the garlic or chop very thinly.
STEP 5
In a seperate mixing bowl combine the yogurt, the lemon, the garlic, and the dill.
STEP 6
Use a cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as you can from your cucumbers.
STEP 7
Add the cucumbers to the rest of the ingredients.
STEP 8
It’s time to taste test and adapt the seasoning.
STEP 9
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Recipe
Easy Tzaziki Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Cucumber Large
- 1/2 Lemon Juice
- 5 grams Dill Chopped
- 1 1/2 clove Garlic
- 500 grams Greek Yoghurt
Instructions
- Start by peeling (optionnal) and cutting your cucumber. You can also grate your cucumber if you prefer.
- Set your cucumber appart and drizzle a little of salt on top of it.
- If you're using fresh dill chop it up thinly.
- Grate the garlic or chop very thinly.
- In a seperate mixing bowl combine the yogurt, the lemon, the garlic, and the dill.
- Use a cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as you can from your cucumbers.
- Add the cucumbers to the rest of the ingredients.
- It's time to taste test and adapt the seasoning.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Variations
If you want to try other variations of this recipe here are some ideas :
- Spice it up: you can add on teaspoon of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to add a little heat.
- Paprika : add a teaspoon of paprika for a light smoky flavor.
- Make it fresh : instead of dill, add mint. The mint will add a fresh taste.
Other recipes
If you’re growing cucumbers in your garden you might end up with more cucumbers than you can eat. If you have more cucumbers than expected or you would like to try another cucumber recipe, you can try this cucumber salad recipe that is as refreshing as the Tzaziki recipe and also super easy to make.
