🥒 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

1. Grate the cucumber (with skin on or off).

2. Place in a clean cloth or paper towel.

3. 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.