Mediterranean > Greek > Greek Appetizers

Classic Tzatziki with Garlic and Lemon Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Grater

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped dill.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 1 hour
5. Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 2 cups of tzatziki

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 80 per 1/4 cup serving
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
- If you don't have fresh dill, you can use dried dill instead.

Variations:
- Add chopped mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a milder flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to squeeze out any excess water from the grated cucumber to prevent the tzatziki from becoming too watery.
- For a thicker tzatziki, use full-fat Greek yogurt.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Tzatziki is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve tzatziki in a small bowl or ramekin with pita bread or vegetables for dipping.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or a drizzle of olive oil.

Pairings:
- Serve with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip for pita bread.

Suggested side dishes:
- Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If your tzatziki is too watery, strain it through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer to remove excess liquid.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate tzatziki promptly and discard any leftovers that have been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Food history:
- Tzatziki is a traditional Greek sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, tangy, and herbaceous.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a dip or sauce for grilled meats, vegetables, or pita bread.

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Region: Greek

Taste: Creamy, Tangy, Garlicky, Lemony, Herby