This refreshing Greek sauce is enjoyed in the Mediterranean diet and across the Middle East. Tzatziki(Tsaht-zee-kee) is fun to say, simple to make and beyond delicious to eat. Enjoying food from another culture really helps one understand the beauty of their country and traditions. 

 

I have always been drawn to cucumber sauces probably because I grew up with traditional cucumber and yogurt raita that my mom made with almost every Pakistani dish especially biriyani.  Similar to the raita I grew up with, tzatziki is made with creamy yogurt, garlic, fresh grated cucumber, fresh herbs, olive oil and lemon juice or vinegar.  Since I love adding my own twist to recipes, I tossed in some chili flakes for a touch of spice.  Having a batch of tzatziki in your fridge can be used for endless amount of recipes. I enjoy eating it as a spread for my wraps, topping for burrito bowls, dip for crackers or veggies and even as salad dressing. Just recently, I used it as part of my Ramadan appetizer platter during Iftar(evening meal) and it was a hit with the family! Aside from being such a multi-purposeful sauce, making tzatziki at home comes with nutritional benefits. This sauce is filled with protein from the creamy Greek yogurt. The dill and cucumber provide some nutrients like vitamin C!

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Simple Tzatziki Recipe 

RECIPE PDF

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes 

Cook Time: None

Total Time: 10 minutes 

Author: Huma Naz

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Ingredients: 

• 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt

• 1 cup grated Persian cucumbers

• 1 tbsp. lemon juice

• 1 tbsp. lemon zest

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1/2 tbsp. olive oil

• 1/2 tsp. dried mint

• 2 tbsp. fresh chopped dill

• 1 tsp. red pepper flakes 

• 1/4 tsp. salt 

• 1/4 tsp. pepper

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Directions: 

1. Wash and dry the cucumber. Then shred the cucumber with a cheese grater(avoid using a really fine grater).  Squeeze the liquid out of the cucumber.

2. In a bowl, add the Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber, lemon juice, lemon zest,  minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, pepper.  Mix well and fold in the chopped dill. Then, drizzle over the olive oil and sprinkle over the mint. 

3. Enjoy with some whole grain pita bread, kebabs, fresh or roasted veggies, and even as a spread in wraps!

 

Recipe Notes:

• You can store extra tzatziki in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.  Stir well before serving.

• You can adjust salt pepper, lemon juice, and seasonings to your preference.

• After making the sauce, it can sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend well. 

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