Tzatziki is a refreshing Greek yogurt sauce or dip made with cucumber, garlic, and dill. It's commonly served as a condiment with Greek and Mediterranean dishes. A step-by-step guide on how to make Greek Tzatziki:
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber:
- Peel the cucumber and grate it using a box grater.
- Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out the excess moisture. This step is important to prevent the Tzatziki from becoming too watery.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Add the finely chopped fresh dill and the grated cucumber to the mixture.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper at this stage.
3. Stir and Chill:
- Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Taste the Tzatziki and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve:
- Before serving, give the Tzatziki a final stir.
- Serve as a dip with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a condiment for dishes like gyros, souvlaki, or grilled meats.
5. Enjoy:
- Enjoy your homemade Greek Tzatziki, a cool and tangy sauce that complements a wide range of Greek and Mediterranean dishes.
Tzatziki can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It's a versatile and delicious condiment that adds a burst of freshness to your meals.