Pita & tzatziki is a simple, refreshing, and satisfying combination of warm, soft pita bread paired with a cool, tangy yogurt-based dip. This dish is a popular choice in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, often served as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. The creamy tzatziki sauce, made from Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, lemon, and herbs, is the perfect accompaniment to the pillowy pita bread, which is ideal for scooping or wrapping.
Tzatziki is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Greek yogurt provides a rich source of protein and probiotics, while cucumbers offer a hydrating, crisp texture. The addition of fresh herbs like dill and mint gives the dip a bright and aromatic flavor, making it both refreshing and flavorful. Pita bread, typically made with flour, water, yeast, and salt, has a soft, slightly chewy texture that complements the smooth and tangy tzatziki sauce.
Whether you’re preparing this as a quick appetizer, part of a Mediterranean feast, or a healthy snack, pita & tzatziki is a versatile and satisfying choice. The combination of flavors is light yet fulfilling, offering a wonderful balance of textures and tastes. Let’s dive into how to make this classic dish that will leave you craving more!
Ingredients
This recipe serves 2-4 people as a snack or appetizer. You can easily adjust the quantities based on the number of servings you need.
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat) – The base for the tzatziki, providing creaminess and tang.
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated or diced – Adds freshness and crunch, making the dip light and hydrating.
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a savory depth of flavor and a subtle kick.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Adds acidity and brightness to balance the richness of the yogurt.
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil – Enhances the creaminess and adds a touch of fruitiness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped – A classic herb that pairs beautifully with the cucumber and yogurt.
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional) – Adds a refreshing, slightly sweet flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To season and balance the flavors.
For the Pita:
- 4 small pita breads – The traditional flatbread used to scoop the tzatziki. You can use regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free pita bread depending on your preference.
- Olive oil – For brushing the pita to enhance its flavor and make it extra soft and slightly crispy when warmed.
- Optional seasonings – You can add a sprinkle of za’atar, oregano, or garlic powder for additional flavor.
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
To start, grate or finely dice the cucumber. Place it in a clean dish towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out the excess moisture. This will prevent the tzatziki from becoming watery. Alternatively, you can use a fine mesh strainer to drain the cucumber if you prefer not to use a towel. Once the cucumber is drained, add it to a bowl.
Next, add the Greek yogurt to the bowl with the cucumber. Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Add the chopped dill and mint (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. If the tzatziki is too thick, you can add a little water or extra lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.
Cover the tzatziki and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Tzatziki can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Step 2: Prepare the Pita
While the tzatziki is chilling, prepare the pita bread. If using store-bought pita, warm it up to enhance its flavor and texture. You can warm the pita in a few different ways:
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pita directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes, until it’s soft and warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Place the pita in the skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side, flipping once, until warm and lightly crispy.
- Microwave: Wrap the pita in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds, until soft and warm.
Step 3: Serve the Pita & Tzatziki
Once the tzatziki has chilled and the pita is warm, slice the pita into wedges or tear it into pieces for dipping. You can also brush the pita with a little olive oil before serving for an extra boost of flavor. Arrange the warm pita pieces on a platter with a generous bowl of tzatziki in the center for dipping.
Variation
- Add More Vegetables – You can incorporate additional veggies into the tzatziki, such as finely grated carrots, roasted red peppers, or even a small amount of finely diced red onion for extra crunch and flavor.
- Spicy Tzatziki – For those who like a bit of heat, add a finely diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the tzatziki. You can also incorporate a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky depth of flavor.
- Greek-Style Pita – Add a few additional toppings to elevate the pita & tzatziki, such as Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, or crumbled feta cheese. This turns your simple appetizer into a Mediterranean platter.
- Grilled Pita – For a slightly smoky flavor, grill the pita on a barbecue or in a grill pan before serving.
- Pita Chips – If you prefer crunchy chips instead of soft pita, cut the pita into triangles, brush them with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Notes
- Draining the Cucumber – This is an important step in making tzatziki because cucumbers contain a lot of water, which can make the dip too runny. Squeezing out the excess moisture ensures that the tzatziki stays thick and creamy.
- Flavor Balance – Taste the tzatziki before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a more acidic dip, add extra lemon juice. If you like it creamier, you can mix in a little more olive oil or yogurt.
- Serving Ideas – Pita & tzatziki is a great addition to a Mediterranean-style spread. Serve it alongside hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, or grilled meats such as lamb or chicken.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack or Appetizer – Serve the pita & tzatziki as a light snack or appetizer for gatherings, parties, or picnics. It’s a great dip for guests to nibble on before a main course.
- With Grilled Meats – Serve the tzatziki alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or beef for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. The refreshing flavors of tzatziki complement the richness of grilled meats perfectly.
- In a Salad – Add a dollop of tzatziki to a salad for a creamy dressing alternative. It pairs particularly well with Greek salads or simple mixed greens.
- Wraps and Sandwiches – Use tzatziki as a spread in wraps or sandwiches. It adds a cool, creamy element to falafel wraps, grilled chicken sandwiches, or veggie wraps.
Tips
- Make Ahead – Tzatziki is great for making ahead. The flavors develop and improve as it sits, so you can prepare it the day before and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
- Customization – Adjust the garlic and lemon to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder tzatziki, reduce the garlic or omit it entirely. You can also increase the amount of lemon juice for a zestier flavor.
- Pita Variations – If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free pita or opt for veggies like cucumber or celery for dipping instead.
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (for pita warming)
Total Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1/4 of the recipe):
- Calories: 150-200 (depending on amount of olive oil and pita used)
- Protein: 6-8g (from Greek yogurt)
- Sodium: 300-400mg (depending on salt added and pita)
- Fat: 8-10g (from olive oil and Greek yogurt)
- Fiber: 1-2g (from cucumber)
- Sugar: 3-5g (from cucumber and yogurt)
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
A: While you can use regular yogurt, Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, making it the preferred choice for tzatziki. If using regular yogurt, you may need to strain it to achieve a similar consistency.
Q: How long can I store tzatziki?
A: Tzatziki can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If the dip becomes too watery after storing, simply stir in a little more yogurt to thicken it up.
Q: Can I make tzatziki spicier?
A: Yes! Add finely chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give the tzatziki a spicy kick.
Q: Can I use pita chips instead of pita bread?
A: Absolutely! Pita chips are a crunchy and flavorful alternative to soft pita. Just make sure they are freshly made or store-bought, and enjoy the extra crunch with your tzatziki.
Conclusion
Pita & tzatziki is a wonderfully light yet satisfying dish that can serve as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired meal. The creamy, tangy tzatziki perfectly complements the warm, soft pita, and the recipe is easy to customize based on your tastes. Whether you serve it at a party, alongside grilled meats, or simply enjoy it as a quick snack, pita & tzatziki is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is always a hit.