Cucumber Greek Yogurt Tzatziki (Printable Version)

Creamy cucumber and Greek yogurt salad with dill, garlic, and lemon. Light, fresh, and easy to prepare.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and diced
02 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped

→ Dairy

03 - 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat)

→ Fresh herbs and seasonings

04 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (optional)
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish (optional)

11 - Additional dill or mint leaves
12 - A drizzle of olive oil

# Steps:

01 - Place the diced cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and let drain for 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
02 - In a large mixing bowl or salad shaker jar, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, mint (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
03 - Add the cucumbers and red onion to the yogurt mixture. Gently toss or shake until evenly coated.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
05 - Chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor (optional).
06 - Serve chilled, garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in 15 minutes with zero cooking, which means you can make it while everything else is heating up.
  • The Greek yogurt keeps it silky and rich without relying on heavy mayo or oils, so it feels light but satisfying.
  • One batch feeds four people or becomes your go-to lunch you'll be eating for days.
02 -
  • Salt the cucumbers and let them drain—skipping this step will result in a watery, diluted salad by dinnertime.
  • Taste before you serve, not after; Greek yogurt can vary in tanginess, and lemon can vary in strength, so a quick adjustment makes all the difference.
03 -
  • Use a fine microplane to mince your garlic; it distributes more evenly and won't leave harsh chunks.
  • If your Greek yogurt is very thick, loosen it with a splash of lemon juice or water before mixing—the goal is creamy, not stiff.
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