Herbed Yogurt Dip (Tzatziki-Style)
A refreshing, creamy, and versatile Greek-inspired dip made with cool cucumber, tangy Greek yogurt, fresh dill, and zesty lemon, perfect for pairing with vegetables, pita, or grilled meats.
For 4 servings
Prepare the cucumber: Wash and grate the English cucumber using the large holes of a box grater. If using a regular cucumber, you may wish to peel it and scoop out the seeds first.
Remove excess moisture: Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh sieve or a clean kitchen towel. Press firmly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for a thick, non-watery dip.
Mince garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic clove. For a milder garlic flavor, you can grate it instead of mincing.
Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the squeezed cucumber, full-fat Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
Season: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to chill. Chilling for an hour or more will enhance the taste.
Serve: Before serving, give the dip a final stir. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil if desired. Serve cold with pita bread, fresh vegetable sticks, or as a refreshing sauce for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, always use full-fat Greek yogurt, as it's thicker and less likely to separate. If using low-fat, consider adding a touch more olive oil for richness.
- 2Don't skip squeezing the cucumber! Excess water will dilute the dip and make it watery. A clean kitchen towel or paper towels work best for this.
- 3Allow the dip to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, resulting in a more harmonious taste.
- 4Adjust garlic and lemon to your preference. If you love garlic, feel free to add another clove; for more tang, a bit more lemon juice can be added.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Replace dill with fresh mint, parsley, or a combination of Mediterranean herbs like oregano for a different aromatic profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a subtle, warming heat.
Creamy AvocadoCreamy Avocado
Blend in a quarter of a ripe avocado for an extra creamy texture, healthy fats, and a slightly richer dip.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Gut Health
Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics, beneficial bacteria that support a healthy digestive system, aid nutrient absorption, and can improve gut flora balance.
Hydration & Nutrients
Cucumber is high in water content, aiding hydration, and provides essential vitamins like K and C, along with important minerals such as potassium.
Protein Power
Greek yogurt offers a significant amount of protein, promoting satiety, helping to manage cravings, and supporting muscle maintenance and growth.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this dip is excellent when made ahead! In fact, the flavors meld and deepen if refrigerated for a few hours or even overnight. It will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
