Welcome to a world where indulgence meets health with our Keto Tzatziki recipe! A garlicky, dill-infused delight, this tzatziki sauce is a keto dieter’s dream for adding creamy, flavorful zest to any meal without the guilt. Whether you’re dressing up grilled chicken, adding a tangy twist to your vegetable platter, or simply seeking a satisfying dip, this tzatziki is poised to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Its low carb profile seamlessly aligns with your keto goals, ensuring you can savor every spoonful without stepping out of ketosis.

Why This Keto Tzatziki Recipe is a Must-Try
Originating from the sun-drenched shores of Greece, tzatziki is a beloved sauce that has graced tables for generations. This keto-friendly version preserves the authentic taste you love while fitting perfectly within a low-carb, high-fat diet. It’s not just about cutting carbs; it’s about enhancing your meals with a sauce that’s rich in flavor and nutrients, thanks to the high-quality ingredients like full-fat Greek yogurt and fresh dill.

As a keto dieter, you’re always on the lookout for ways to add variety to your meals without compromising your macros. This tzatziki sauce does just that, bringing a burst of freshness and creamy texture to dishes that might otherwise lean towards the heavier side. It’s perfect for balancing out the richness of fatty meats or adding a layer of complexity to simple snacks like sliced cucumbers or bell peppers.
Let’s dive into the origins of this recipe, its keto benefits, and how to master the art of making the perfect keto tzatziki. Plus, we’ll explore variations and substitutions to keep your taste buds tantalized, and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your tzatziki experience is flawless.
Recipe Details
The journey of this Keto Tzatziki recipe began in my quest to find the perfect balance between satisfying flavor and keto-friendly ingredients. Tzatziki has always been a favorite of mine, with its cool cucumber and bold garlic notes, but traditional recipes often include higher-carb ingredients that don’t align with a ketogenic lifestyle. By swapping out these components for keto-approved alternatives, I’ve crafted a tzatziki that’s not only delicious but also nourishing and fully compliant with keto dietary standards.
Full-fat Greek yogurt serves as the creamy base for this sauce, providing a rich texture and essential fats that are key to maintaining ketosis. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while the garlic, dill, and lemon juice infuse the sauce with a depth of flavor that elevates it from a mere condiment to the star of the show.
What makes this recipe particularly suited to a keto diet is its macronutrient profile. With each serving containing only 2 grams of net carbs, it’s an excellent way to add creaminess and taste to your meals without exceeding your daily carb limit. The high-fat content from the Greek yogurt also aligns with the keto principle of consuming healthy fats to fuel your body, making this tzatziki both a delicious and smart choice for anyone following a ketogenic diet.
Creating this tzatziki is a labor of love, a process that involves carefully selecting the best ingredients and employing techniques to ensure the sauce’s texture and flavor are just right. It’s a versatile condiment that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences, making it a valuable addition to any keto cook’s recipe collection.

The Method
Mastering the perfect keto tzatziki is all about technique. The key to achieving the ideal consistency and flavor lies in the preparation of the cucumber and the careful combination of ingredients. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you craft the ultimate keto tzatziki, complete with chef’s tips for the best results.
Start by selecting the right cucumber. For this recipe, a large, seedless variety like an English cucumber is preferred, as it has fewer seeds and a milder flavor. Begin by cutting the cucumber in half lengthwise and using a spoon to gently scrape out any seeds. This step is crucial to prevent excess water from diluting the tzatziki.
Once the seeds are removed, grate the cucumber using the fine side of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a sieve set over a bowl, and press down firmly with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. For an even drier cucumber, wrap the shreds in a clean kitchen towel and give it a good squeeze. This effort ensures your tzatziki will be thick and creamy, not watery.
In a mixing bowl, combine the strained Greek yogurt with the cucumber. Look for full-fat Greek yogurt, as it not only aligns with keto macros but also provides a luxurious mouthfeel. Add freshly minced garlic for a punch of flavor—don’t skimp here, as garlic is a cornerstone of traditional tzatziki. Finely chop fresh dill for a burst of herby brightness, and remember, fresh is best to achieve the authentic taste.
Drizzle in high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to add a zesty, fruity note that cuts through the creaminess of the yogurt. Stir everything together until well combined, then season with salt and black pepper. It’s important to taste as you go, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a more cohesive and robust sauce. When you’re ready to serve, give the tzatziki one final stir to redistribute any liquid that may have separated, and transfer it to a serving dish. A final drizzle of olive oil just before serving adds a touch of elegance and an extra layer of flavor.
Remember, the quality of your ingredients will shine through in this simple dish, so choose the best you can find. And don’t rush the chilling process—it’s essential for achieving the depth of flavor that makes this tzatziki truly special.
Variations
Spicy Keto Tzatziki
Add a kick to your tzatziki by incorporating a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper. This spicy twist is perfect for those who love a little heat with their creamy dips.
Herb-Infused Keto Tzatziki
In addition to dill, try adding other fresh herbs like mint or parsley to create a more complex flavor profile. Each herb will impart its unique character, making for a refreshing and aromatic sauce.
Cheesy Keto Tzatziki
For a richer tzatziki, blend in some crumbled feta cheese. The tanginess of the feta complements the yogurt and cucumber, adding a delightful creaminess and a touch of Greek authenticity.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Keto Tzatziki
For those avoiding dairy, replace the Greek yogurt with a full-fat, unsweetened coconut yogurt. The coconut yogurt maintains the creamy texture while keeping the recipe dairy-free and keto-friendly.
Lemon-Free Keto Tzatziki
If you’re out of lemons or prefer a different acidity, apple cider vinegar is an excellent substitute. It adds a similar tangy flavor and is also known for its potential health benefits.
Nut-Free Keto Tzatziki
While this recipe doesn’t contain nuts, some may want to add a crunchy element. Swap out the suggested olive oil drizzle for a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor without the nuts.
FAQs
Can I make keto tzatziki ahead of time?
Yes, making your tzatziki in advance is actually recommended. The flavors develop and intensify when given time to rest, so preparing it a day ahead can enhance its taste.
How long does keto tzatziki last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, keto tzatziki can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving if any separation occurs.
Can I freeze keto tzatziki?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can cause the yogurt to separate and the cucumbers to become soggy upon thawing. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy your tzatziki fresh.
What are the best keto-friendly dishes to pair with tzatziki?
Keto tzatziki goes well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef, as well as with low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and cauliflower.
How can I thicken my keto tzatziki if it’s too runny?
If your tzatziki is too thin, try straining the yogurt through a cheesecloth before mixing in the other ingredients to remove excess moisture. Also, ensure you’ve thoroughly drained the cucumber.
Delight in the refreshing taste of this creamy Keto Tzatziki, the perfect low-carb companion for your favorite grilled meats or crisp vegetables. This traditional Greek sauce is reinvented to fit your ketogenic lifestyle, boasting the same tantalizing flavors without the carb overload. Each bite is a harmonious blend of cool cucumber, rich Greek yogurt, and a hint of garlic, dill, and lemon. It’s an effortless way to elevate any meal with a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Description
This Keto Tzatziki recipe brings you the classic Greek condiment with a low-carb twist. Perfect for those on a ketogenic diet, it’s creamy, garlicky, and refreshingly tangy, ideal for dipping or as a sauce.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Servings
Makes about 2 cups (8 servings)
Cook Time
0 minutes (chill for at least 2 hours before serving)
Ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt, full-fat (17 oz / 482 g)
- 1 large cucumber, seeded and finely grated (8 oz / 227 g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (0.5 oz / 14 g)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (0.5 oz / 15 ml)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (0.5 oz / 15 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Method
- Begin by preparing the cucumber. Cut the cucumber in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Finely grate the cucumber and place it in a sieve over a bowl. Press down with a spoon to squeeze out excess moisture, or wrap in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out. This step is crucial to prevent your tzatziki from becoming watery.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the strained Greek yogurt with the grated cucumber.
- Add the minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, extra virgin olive oil, and lemon juice to the yogurt mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.
- Before serving, give the tzatziki a good stir and transfer it to a serving dish. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil, if desired.
- Enjoy your keto tzatziki with your favorite keto-friendly dishes!
Cuisine
Greek, Keto
Calories
60 calories per serving
Carbohydrates
3.5 grams per serving
Net Carbs
2 grams per serving
Fat
4 grams per serving
Protein
5 grams per serving
Author
Lorcan O’Connor