Nonna's Authentic Tzatziki Recipe
Nonna's authentic Greek tzatziki sauce is a light refreshing dip or spread that is perfect for any warm weather entertaining. This creamy sauce is perfect for dunking veggies or pita chips into or for adding a Mediterranean flare to sandwiches.
Servings: 5 cups
Calories: 376kcal
Ingredients
- 3 English cucumbers
- 1 1/2 16 oz containers sour cream
- 1 16 oz container full fat Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Non Authentic Ingredients (Optional)
- 1 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
- Peel the cucumbers, and then grate them. Add the grated cucumber to a waiting colander set in a sink.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt over the cucumbers, stir, and then let them sit (undisturbed) for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, using the back of a sturdy wooden spoon press the cucumbers against the edges of the colander to release excess water. Do this several times.
- To a mixing bowl, add the sour cream, yogurt, garlic, and oil. Whisk everything together until evenly combined.
- Using the wooden spoon, fold in the cucumbers.
- The authentic tzatziki can be served as is, or stored until ready to use.
If Making The Seasoned Version
- Add the extra ingredients to the mixing bowl, along with the original ones called for. Again, whisk until everything's evenly combined.
- Fold in the cucumbers.
- You can serve immediately, or cover & chill until ready. The flavors will deepen as the spices are left to sit in the base mixture.
- Serve with your favorite assortment of dipping options.
Notes
- Don't have Greek yogurt? Some places it can be hard to find. Spoon plain regular yogurt into a coffee filter and the excess moisture drains away quickly, leaving behind a much thicker yogurt similar in consistency to the Greek version
- This recipe makes a lot- perfect for entertaining or serving a crowd. If you are planning to only serve your family or a smaller crowd, half the recipe.
- Can't find English cucumbers or have a ton of regular cucumbers growing it your garden? Feel free to use them, but there's more moisture to squeeze out. Make sure you drain them well in order to avoid a watery sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: 376kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 146mg | Potassium: 607mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1052IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 289mg | Iron: 1mg