Greek Tzatziki with Dill and Cucumber Ribbons
The quintessential Greek Tzatziki with Dill and Cucumber Ribbons is a refreshing and creamy dip that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. With its blend of tangy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber, and aromatic dill, this tzatziki recipe is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes or can be savored as a standalone mezze.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 0 minutes mins
0 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Mezze
Cuisine Greek
Servings 4 servings
Calories 150 kcal
Medium-sized mixing bowl
Vegetable peeler
Colander
Kitchen towel
Measuring spoons
Garlic press (optional)
- 2 cups Greek yogurt 16 oz / 450 g
- 1 large English cucumber approximately 12 oz / 340 g
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 oz / 30 ml
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped 0.25 oz / 7 g
- 2 cloves garlic, minced about 1 teaspoon / 5 g
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice 0.5 oz / 15 ml
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Begin by preparing the cucumber. Use a vegetable peeler to create long, thin ribbons of cucumber. Stop when you reach the seeds, and discard the seedy core or save for another use.
Lightly salt the cucumber ribbons and set them aside in a colander to drain for 10 minutes. Afterward, squeeze out any excess moisture using your hands or a clean kitchen towel.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, finely chopped dill, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Gently fold the cucumber ribbons into the yogurt mixture, taking care not to break them. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, let it chill overnight.
Before serving, give the tzatziki a final stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled as a dip with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a complement to grilled meats.
For a thicker tzatziki, you can strain the Greek yogurt through a cheesecloth for a few hours or overnight to remove excess whey.
This tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
Keyword Cucumber Tzatziki, Dill Tzatziki, Greek Tzatziki, Mediterranean Dip, mezze