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Tzatsiki

This authentic Greek tzatziki is a versatile vegetarian dip that brings a refreshing burst of flavour to any sharing platter. By combining thick, strained Greek yogurt with finely diced cucumber and a sharp hit of garlic, you create a condiment that is both cooling and complex. The addition of fresh dill and shallots provides an aromatic depth that makes this homemade version far superior to shop-bought alternatives.

Ideal as part of a Mediterranean mezze or as a healthy accompaniment to grilled vegetables, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare. For a quick savoury snack, try serving it on toasted pita points topped with sun-ripened tomatoes and a pinch of dried oregano. It keeps well in the fridge, making it a brilliant make-ahead option for summer entertaining or weekday lunches.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Tzatsiki

  • 1 English cucumber, peeled

  • 10 cloves garlic, smashed and finely chopped

  • 240ml distilled white vinegar

  • 4 shallots, thickly sliced

  • 1 cup small, picked sprigs dill

  • 2 1/2 cups strained or Greek yoghurt or labne spread

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • Kosher salt and cracked black pepper

How to make Tzatsiki

Quarter the cucumber lengthwise and trim off the triangular wedge of seeds. Cut the cucumber into a very small, even dice. Transfer it to a mixing bowl.

In a food processor, combine the garlic, vinegar, shallots, and dill. Pulse until finely chopped but not puréed. Add the mixture to the cucumbers; add the yoghurt. Fold together with a rubber spatula, adding olive oil and lemon juice. Season liberally with kosher salt and pepper, starting off with 1 tablespoon salt. Taste for seasoning. You can store Tzatsiki in a covered, clean jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

The Wedge: Smear some Tzatsiki onto a pita triangle. Top with a tiny pinch of dry Greek oregano, a few pieces of diced tomato or a halved grape or cherry tomato, and a few salami matchsticks.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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