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Cucumber and Tomato Tzatziki

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This refreshing cucumber and tomato tzatziki is a vibrant twist on the classic Greek dip, offering a wonderful balance of cool yoghurt and fresh garden vegetables. By straining the yoghurt and cucumber thoroughly, you achieve a thick, luxurious consistency that stands up beautifully as a savoury appetiser or a cooling side dish for spicy grilled meats. The addition of fresh dill and pungent garlic provides that unmistakable Mediterranean flavour profile that makes it a perennial favourite for summer entertaining.

As a versatile vegetarian dish, this dip is perfect for sharing at a family barbecue or as part of a healthy mezze platter. Using full-fat yoghurt ensures a rich texture, while the sliced tomatoes add a burst of colour and sweetness that elevates it beyond the traditional recipe. Prepare the base a day in advance for a quick and easy assembly when guests arrive.

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Ingredients for Cucumber and Tomato Tzatziki

  • 725ml plain yoghurt (do not use low-fat or nonfat)

  • 1 English hothouse cucumber (about 450g ), peeled, halved lengthwise, seeded

  • 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill

  • 1 large garlic clove, minced

  • 1 large tomato, quartered, seeded, thinly sliced

How to make Cucumber and Tomato Tzatziki

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Place strainer over large bowl. Line strainer with 3 layers of cheesecloth. Spoon yoghurt into cheesecloth-lined strainer; let stand at room temperature to drain 3 hours (liquid will drain out and yoghurt will thicken). Transfer yoghurt to medium bowl; discard liquid.

Meanwhile, coarsely grate cucumber. Place in another strainer; let stand at room temperature until most of liquid drains out, about 3 hours. Discard liquid. Squeeze excess moisture from cucumber.

Mix cucumber, dill and garlic into yoghurt. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)

Mix tomato into yoghurt. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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