A cool, thick Greek cucumber yogurt sauce with fresh dill and mint. Squeezing the grated cucumber well keeps this no cook yogurt cucmber dip creamy instead of watery.
Drain excess whey From Greek Yogurt: This is not necessary but makes the tzatziki sauce more creamy
Grate the cucumber: Wash the cucumber well. Leave the tender peel on and grate the cucumber on the large holes of a box grater.
Remove the cucumber water: Wrap the grated cucumber in a clean lint-free kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze firmly until the cucumber no longer drips freely.
Mix: Combine the squeezed cucumber, Greek yogurt, mint, dill, fresh lemon juice, salt, and extra-virgin olive oil in a medium bowl. Stir in the optional grated garlic only if using.
Rest and serve: Mix until evenly combined. Cover and refrigerate for 6 to 7 hours. Stir, taste, adjust the salt if needed, and serve chilled.
Video
Notes
If using regular plain yogurt, strain it in a cheesecloth-lined sieve until thick before measuring.
Squeezing the grated cucumber thoroughly is the key to a thick sauce.
Garlic becomes stronger as the sauce sits, so use it carefully.
The hands-on time is 5 minutes. Rest the mixed sauce in the refrigerator for 6 to 7 hours before serving.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.
Freezing is not recommended because the yogurt and cucumber can separate.