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GreekAuthentic Cuisine

Tzatziki

Serves 4 to 6 Dip vegetarian, Appetizers

Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a staple on every Greek table, a dish that embodies the simplicity of Greek home cooking. Crafted with love and intuition, this is not a recipe bound by strict measurements but rather guided by taste and tradition. Olive oil flows generously, salt is added with a knowing hand, and a lemon is always within reach to balance flavors. This home version captures the essence of how a Greek family cook would prepare it, bringing a taste of Greece into your kitchen.

The flavors of tzatziki are a refreshing dance of creamy, tangy, and herbaceous notes. The strained Greek yogurt provides a rich, velvety base, while the grated cucumber adds a cool, crisp texture. Garlic imparts a gentle heat, smoothed by the lushness of olive oil and brightened by a splash of red wine vinegar. Fresh dill ties it all together, creating a vibrant and harmonious taste that invites you to savor each bite.

Ingredients

  • 500 gstrained Greek yogurt
  • 1cucumber — grated and drained
  • 2 clovesgarlic — minced
  • 2 tbspextra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbspred wine vinegar
  • 2 tbspfresh dill — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by grating the cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a fine mesh sieve or a clean kitchen towel over a bowl. Lightly sprinkle with a pinch of fine sea salt, which will help draw out excess moisture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then gather the towel or press the sieve to squeeze out as much water as possible until the cucumber feels almost dry to the touch.
  2. In a mixing bowl, add 500 g of strained Greek yogurt. Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely, or use a garlic press for a smoother texture, and add it to the yogurt. Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh dill finely and add it to the bowl as well.
  3. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the yogurt mixture, followed by 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar. These ingredients will add richness and a slight tang to the tzatziki. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula or a spoon, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  4. Taste the tzatziki and add fine sea salt to your liking. The flavors should be balanced, with a noticeable but not overpowering garlic presence. If desired, adjust with more vinegar for tang or olive oil for richness.
  5. Transfer the tzatziki to a serving dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the garlic to soften, resulting in a harmonious blend.
  6. Once chilled, serve the tzatziki cool alongside pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats. The texture should be creamy and thick, with a fresh, herby aroma from the dill.
Cover of Authentic Greek Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Greek Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Greek Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Greek volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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