Last updated on February 22nd, 2026

Tzatziki (Greek Cucumber-Dill Yogurt Sauce). - harvestandnourish.com

This incredibly versatile cucumber dill Tzatziki is a workhorse in our kitchen. It’s super creamy, herby and ridiculously good. And you can have this fuss-free homemade version ready in minutes!

What is Tzatziki?

Made with simple ingredients, tzatziki is a dip or sauce most commonly found in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Think thick, garlicky Greek yogurt with lots of fresh, juicy cucumber, citrusy dill & bright lemon. Then top it with good quality olive oil and chili flakes for a little heat!

Here’s everything you’ll need to make it

Plain Greek yogurt
½ English cucumber
2 large garlic cloves
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Fresh dill
Kosher or fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Tips for making homemade tzatziki

You’ll definitely want to use full fat or reduced fat Greek (strained) yogurt in this recipe to achieve the creaminess we crave. Regular yogurt will result in a runny dip and is not recommended.

I like to use English cucumbers when making tzatziki. They’re seedless, a little sweeter and because they have a thin skin you don’t have to peel them. If using thicker-skinned cucumbers, I recommend peeling them then gently pressing them with a dry tea towel or thick napkin once chopped to remove any excess water. This will help to produce a thicker dip.

This Tzatziki is delicious served as an appetizer with crostini or warm pita bread, alongside grilled meats, fish, burgers or vegetables or as a dip for just about anything. Tangy, refreshing… delicious!

Try this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus or this Tuscan White Bean Dip next.

If you make this recipe, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see!

And of course, feel free to leave any questions, comments or reviews. This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you!

Equipment

Measuring set
Mixing bowl set

Ingredients

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
½ English cucumber finely diced
2 large garlic cloves minced
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill plus more for garnish
Kosher or fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Extra-virgin olive oil for topping
Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes

US Customary – Metric

Instructions

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, stir together yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice and dill. Season with salt and pepper according to preference.
Transfer to serving bowl, top with olive oil, more fresh dill and red pepper flakes. Serve chilled.

Notes

Make ahead: Tzatziki may be made a day in advance and stored in a well-sealed container in the refrigerator. Reserve toppings until ready to serve.

Storage: Left over tzatziki can be stored in a well-sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Stir before serving.