Looking for a cool and refreshing dip that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, wraps, or fresh bread? This Jamie Oliver Tzatziki Recipe is a beautifully simple and flavorful cucumber-yogurt dip that delivers a burst of freshness with every bite. Inspired by Jamie’s no-fuss, rustic style, this recipe uses natural ingredients and classic Mediterranean flavors to create a dip you’ll want to serve again and again.

What is Jamie Oliver Tzatziki?

Jamie Oliver’s Tzatziki is a traditional Greek dip made with thick Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. It’s creamy, tangy, and incredibly cooling—perfect for hot days or to balance spicy and grilled dishes. With minimal effort and a handful of fresh ingredients, it’s a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Refreshing and light – Perfect for hot weather or spicy dishes
Made with wholesome ingredients – No artificial flavors
Quick to prepare – Ready in just 10 minutes
Versatile serving options – Dip, sauce, or spread
Naturally low in calories – Ideal for healthy snacking
Keeps well for days – Great for meal prep

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Tzatziki

1 cup (250g) thick Greek yogurt – Full-fat or low-fat
½ large cucumber (or 1 small), grated – Unpeeled
1 clove garlic, minced or grated – Adjust to taste
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – For richness
1 tbsp chopped fresh mint or dill – Optional but recommended
Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl
Grater
Garlic press or fine knife
Spoon or whisk
Sieve or cheesecloth (optional for draining cucumber)

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Tzatziki

Step 1: Grate the Cucumber

Use a coarse grater to grate the cucumber.
Optional: Place in a sieve or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess water for thicker tzatziki.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs.
Stir well until fully mixed and creamy.

Step 3: Season and Chill

Add salt and pepper to taste.
Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors blend.

Step 4: Serve

Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Tzatziki

Grilled lamb or chicken skewers – A classic Greek pairing
Pita bread or naan – Ideal for dipping
Falafel wraps – Adds cool creaminess
Roasted vegetables – Especially eggplant and zucchini
Gyros or shawarma – Elevates meat-filled wraps
Baked potatoes or sweet potatoes – As a tangy topping
Fresh veggie sticks – Healthy and crunchy snack

Expert Tips for Making the Best Tzatziki

Drain the cucumber thoroughly – Prevents watery texture
Use full-fat Greek yogurt – Creamier and richer flavor
Adjust garlic to taste – Start small; raw garlic is strong
Add lemon zest for brightness – A little goes a long way
Let it rest before serving – Flavors deepen in the fridge
Chop herbs finely – Helps flavor spread evenly
Serve cold – It tastes best well-chilled

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Tzatziki

Add grated lemon zest – Enhances the citrus note
Mix in a pinch of cumin or paprika – Adds depth
Swap dill for mint – Offers a sweeter flavor
Use labneh instead of Greek yogurt – Thicker and tangier
Add a touch of feta – For a briny twist
Make it vegan – Use coconut or soy yogurt
Blend for smoother texture – Especially for spreads

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Tzatziki

Use an airtight container – Keeps it fresh
Refrigerate immediately after making – Maintain flavor and texture
Consume within 3–4 days – For the best taste
Avoid double-dipping – Helps it stay fresh longer
Stir before each use – Ingredients may separate slightly

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a cold dip and should not be reheated. To serve after refrigeration:

Let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes – Slightly softens
Give it a gentle stir – Restores creamy consistency
Do not microwave or cook – It can curdle the yogurt

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Tzatziki Healthier?

Use low-fat Greek yogurt – Reduces calories while keeping protein
Limit or skip olive oil – Still tastes great without it
Add more herbs – Boosts flavor without extra fat
Serve with raw veggies instead of bread – Cuts carbs
Make a garlic-free version – Gentler on digestion
Avoid salt if needed – Let lemon and herbs provide the taste
Add extra cucumber – Increases fiber and volume

Nutrition Value (per 2 tbsp serving, approx.):

Calories: 45
Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 2.5g
Fiber: 0.3g
Sugar: 1g

FAQs

How do you prevent tzatziki from becoming watery?

Squeeze the grated cucumber thoroughly using a clean cloth or paper towel before mixing. Removing excess moisture is key to a thick and creamy tzatziki.

Can you make tzatziki without Greek yogurt?

Yes, but Greek yogurt is preferred for its thickness. If using regular yogurt, drain it through a sieve lined with cheesecloth for a few hours to remove excess liquid.

What kind of cucumber is best for tzatziki?

English or Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their thinner skin and fewer seeds. If using a regular cucumber, peel it and remove the seeds before grating.

How long should tzatziki chill before serving?

Chill tzatziki for at least 15 to 30 minutes after preparation. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and results in a better-tasting dip.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Tzatziki Recipe delivers on all fronts—fresh, easy, and full of Mediterranean flavor.

With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s one of those recipes you’ll return to again and again.