Cold Tzatziki Sauce with Cucumber and Dill

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Refreshing Greek yogurt sauce blended with crisp cucumbers, fresh dill, and garlic, perfect for dipping or as a cool condiment for grilled meats. This greek-inspired vegetarian ready in about 15 minutes blends Greek yogurt, tablespoons, finely chopped fresh dill, minced garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 80 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 6 Greek cuisine 80 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture until only a few tablespoons remain to avoid watery tzatziki.
  2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups Greek yogurt, the drained grated cucumber, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir well.
  3. Step 3: Add 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and serve chilled as a sauce or dip.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Cold Tzatziki Sauce with Cucumber and Dill take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Cold Tzatziki Sauce with Cucumber and Dill?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cold Tzatziki Sauce with Cucumber and Dill?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cold Tzatziki Sauce with Cucumber and Dill for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Cold Tzatziki Sauce with Cucumber and Dill?

Greek vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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