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Ingredients
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Base
Cucumber component
Aromatics & seasoning
Finish & optional garnish
Method
Base
Choose and drain yogurt (optional)
If your Greek yogurt is very loose, place it in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth (or a clean kitchen towel) over a bowl and let drain in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes to thicken. Otherwise, use the 2 cups of Greek yogurt as-is in a mixing bowl.
Cucumber component
Prepare and salt cucumber
Peel the English cucumber if the skin is waxed or you prefer a milder flavor; otherwise leave skin on for color and texture. Halve the cucumber lengthwise, scrape seeds with a spoon if they are watery, then finely grate the cucumber on the large holes of a box grater or pulse briefly in a food processor.
Remove excess moisture
Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh sieve or clean kitchen towel, sprinkle with 1/2 tsp kosher salt (from the cucumber component), toss gently, and let sit 10 minutes. After resting, firmly squeeze out as much liquid as possible into the sink or bowl — removing the moisture is crucial to avoid watery tzatziki.
Aromatics & seasoning
Prepare the garlic
Mince the garlic very finely or grate it on a microplane. If you prefer less sharp garlic flavor, mash the garlic with a pinch of salt using the flat of a knife or a mortar and pestle to mellow it slightly.
Combine ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, add the drained Greek yogurt. Stir in the squeezed grated cucumber, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, lemon, or garlic to preference. If the mixture seems too thick, fold in up to 1/2 cup thick plain yogurt (or a splash of cold water) to reach desired spreadable consistency.
Finish & optional garnish
Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 1 hour (preferably 2–4 hours) to let the flavors meld. Chilling also allows any remaining liquid to be absorbed or skimmed off.
Serve
Before serving, give the tzatziki a final stir. Transfer to a serving bowl, create a small well in the center, drizzle with 1 teaspoon extra olive oil (optional) and sprinkle the additional chopped dill if desired. Serve chilled as a spread, dip, or accompaniment to grilled meats, pita, or vegetables.