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tzatziki sauce with pita bread, olives, and tomatoes

Tzatziki (Greek Cucumber Yogurt Sauce)

A quick, creamy, classic Greek sauce that adds flavor to just about any dish. Use as a gyro sauce, drizzle over grilled meat, or serve with pita and olives for a snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cucumber
  • 2 cups plain yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp reserved
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Parsley (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Pour the olive oil into a liquid measuring cup, then remove 2 tbsp and set aside. Pour the remaining olive oil into a medium size bowl.
  • Very finely mince the cucumber and place into the bowl. If you want a smoother sauce, you can peel the cucumber and scoop out the seeds before chopping, but I prefer not to waste any food and find that it tastes just the same without this step.
  • Add the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and parsley and stir together.
  • Chill until ready to serve, then drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top. Use immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for several days. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld.
Keyword Greek, tzatziki