Creamy, tangy, and incredibly refreshing, this dairy-free tzatziki recipe captures all the vibrant flavors of the traditional Greek dip, but without any dairy. It’s truly the perfect accompaniment for a wide array of dishes, from warm pita bread and crispy falafel to roasted vegetables, succulent meat skewers, or as an essential component of a diverse Mediterranean mezze platter. Prepare to elevate your culinary experience with this surprisingly simple yet utterly delicious creation.

The Journey to a Delicious Greek Dip

My first memorable encounter with tzatziki was years ago when my dear Greek friend, Marina, visited Juan and me during our time living in Washington D.C. Eager to explore new cuisines, I had asked Marina to share some authentic Greek recipes with us, and naturally, tzatziki – that iconic yogurt-based dip brimming with fresh herbs – was high on the list.

That evening, the kitchen transformed into a lively classroom. We stood side by side at the counter, me observing her every move and diligently taking notes, as Marina effortlessly and expertly prepared the dip. Her hands moved with a natural grace as she grated the cucumber, then, with a focused intensity, she squeezed the grated cucumber using a kitchen towel. She wrung out every last drop of liquid until, in her own words, “there was literally not a drop of liquid left to be squeezed.” This, she explained, was “the secret to a thick and creamy tzatziki” – a crucial tip I’ve never forgotten and gladly pass on.

Once the cucumber had been thoroughly drained of its excess moisture, the rest of the preparation was surprisingly quick and easy. We simply mixed the dried cucumber with the creamy yogurt, pungent fresh garlic, rich olive oil, bright lemon juice, and a seasoning of salt and pepper. The mixture was then chilled until dinner was ready, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This simple act of making tzatziki with Marina created a lasting memory and sparked a deep appreciation for Greek culinary traditions.

Crafting a Delicious Dairy-Free Tzatziki

Though Marina and I lost touch over the years, the memory of that day’s dinner remains vibrant in my mind – a delightful excursion into Greek cuisine, generously shared by a dear friend. This recipe for dairy-free tzatziki is a heartfelt homage to Marina and her rich Greek heritage, adapted to suit modern dietary needs.

The traditional version of tzatziki famously relies on Greek yogurt as its unsweetened, creamy base. However, for this rendition, we’re embracing a completely dairy-free approach. This thoughtful substitution ensures that everyone, including those with lactose intolerances, dairy allergies, or those following a vegan diet, can fully enjoy this wonderfully refreshing and tangy dip without any compromise on flavor or texture. It’s a testament to how easily classic recipes can be adapted to be inclusive and equally delicious.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Dairy-Free Tzatziki Recipe:

• Remarkably Simple Ingredients: You’ll only need a handful of accessible ingredients (just 6 main components, excluding salt and pepper) to create this lusciously creamy dairy-free tzatziki sauce. All of these items are readily available at your local grocery store, making this a hassle-free recipe to whip up anytime.
• Effortlessly Easy to Make: With a mere 10 minutes of active prep time, this homemade tzatziki dip comes together in practically no time at all. It’s the quintessential easy appetizer or side dish, perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a quick, flavorful addition to your meal.
• Completely Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free & Vegan: This is truly the best part! Our tzatziki recipe is 100% gluten-free, entirely dairy-free, and certified vegan. This means it’s suitable for a broad range of dietary preferences and restrictions, including individuals with Celiac disease, gluten or lactose intolerances, or anyone following a plant-based diet. Everyone can enjoy this vibrant dip without a single worry!
• Versatile Pairing: Beyond its dietary friendliness, this tzatziki is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with almost any Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or even simple grilled dish. From veggie sticks to elaborate platters, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with fresh vegetables, healthy fats from olive oil, and a plant-based yogurt base, this dip is a guilt-free indulgence. It’s packed with flavor without being heavy, making it a wonderful addition to a balanced diet.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need for Dairy-Free Tzatziki:

Here’s a helpful visual overview of the fresh, simple ingredients you’ll gather for crafting this delightful dairy-free tzatziki recipe. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that authentic, tangy, and refreshing flavor profile we all love.

(For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please scroll down to the comprehensive printable recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post.)

Detailed Recipe Notes & Savvy Substitutions:

Understanding each ingredient and its role is key to mastering this dairy-free tzatziki. Here are some in-depth notes and potential substitutions to guide you:

• Dairy-Free Yogurt: For this truly homemade dairy-free tzatziki, I opted for unsweetened plain dairy-free yogurt. The key here is “unsweetened” – avoid flavored or sweetened varieties, as they will alter the traditional savory profile of tzatziki. Options like coconut, almond, soy, or cashew-based yogurts work well, but ensure they have a thick, creamy consistency similar to Greek yogurt. If you don’t have dairy intolerance, feel free to use regular plain Greek yogurt or even sour cream for a rich texture.
• Cucumber – The Essential Crispness: Cucumber is not just an ingredient; it’s the heart of tzatziki’s refreshing character. You can use a large English cucumber or a few smaller Turkish/Persian cucumbers. The single most vital step in preventing a watery dip and achieving that desired creamy, thick texture is to diligently squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated cucumber. This small effort makes a monumental difference in the final product.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – For Authentic Flavor: I highly recommend using a good quality extra virgin olive oil. Its distinct fruity and slightly peppery notes are integral to the authentic Mediterranean taste of tzatziki. A standard olive oil can be used in a pinch, but extra virgin will provide the best, most robust flavor.
• Fresh Garlic – The Pungent Kick: For optimal flavor, using fresh garlic is non-negotiable in this recipe. Granulated garlic or garlic powder, unfortunately, simply won’t impart the same vibrant, pungent depth that fresh cloves do. You can either finely mince the garlic by hand for a slightly chunkier texture or use a garlic press for effortless convenience and a smoother infusion of flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightness Personified: Much like fresh garlic, fresh lemon juice is paramount. Given the limited number of ingredients in tzatziki, the quality of each component shines through. Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright, tangy acidity that bottled juice simply cannot replicate, ensuring the most delicious and balanced dip.
• Fresh Dill or Mint – The Aromatic Finish: Traditionally, fresh dill or mint are the aromatic herbs of choice for tzatziki. I’ve opted for fresh dill in this particular recipe, as its slightly grassy, sweet notes beautifully complement the cucumber and yogurt. However, if you prefer, fresh mint offers a wonderfully refreshing, cool counterpoint and will work perfectly too. You can also use a combination of both for a more complex herbal profile.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for bringing all the flavors together. Always taste and adjust to your preference.

How to Master Dairy-Free Tzatziki (Step-by-Step Guide):

Follow these detailed steps to create a flawless, creamy, and flavorful dairy-free tzatziki every single time.

Step 1: Grate and Thoroughly Squeeze the Cucumber

A. Grate Cucumber: Begin by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Using the medium or large holes of a box grater, finely grate the cucumbers. Transfer the grated cucumber to a bowl, sprinkle generously with a pinch of salt, and mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. Allow this mixture to sit for approximately 5 minutes. The salt will help draw out excess moisture from the cucumber, a critical step for a thick tzatziki.

B. Squeeze Liquid from Cucumber: After the 5 minutes of resting, it’s time for the most important step. Gather the grated cucumber into a clean kitchen towel, a piece of cheesecloth, or place it into a fine metal sieve and press firmly. Squeeze out as much liquid as humanly possible from the cucumber. This diligent effort is absolutely critical to achieve a thick, creamy tzatziki and prevent it from becoming a watery, diluted sauce. You’ll be surprised how much liquid comes out!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients & Chill for Optimal Flavor

A. Combine Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, bring together the thoroughly squeezed cucumber with your choice of plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (or Greek yogurt if not dairy-free), the fragrant extra virgin olive oil, finely minced fresh garlic, bright lemon juice, freshly chopped dill, and a generous seasoning of salt and pepper to taste.

B. Mix Well and Chill: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are perfectly combined and the mixture is smooth and consistent. For the absolute best flavor development, allow the tzatziki to chill in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Give it another quick stir right before you serve to ensure the texture is ideal.

C. Garnish and Serve: Just before presenting your delicious dairy-free tzatziki, add a final flourish. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh dill (or mint), a delicate drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil, and a dash of freshly ground black pepper. Serve this irresistible dip with an assortment of crisp vegetable crudités, crunchy crackers, warm pita bread, or alongside grilled meats and falafel for a truly authentic Mediterranean experience.

Dish by Dish Pro Tips & Tricks for the Best Dairy-Free Tzatziki:

• The Golden Rule: Squeeze That Grated Cucumber! This cannot be stressed enough. For that luxuriously creamy, non-watery consistency that defines excellent tzatziki, you absolutely must squeeze out every possible drop of liquid from the grated cucumber. It only takes a couple of minutes but makes all the difference, preventing the natural high water content of cucumbers from diluting your perfect dip. Use a clean kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or a fine-mesh sieve and press firmly until no more liquid comes out.
• Not Dairy-Intolerant? No Problem! If you don’t have a lactose intolerance or dairy allergy, feel free to swap the dairy-free yogurt for an equal amount of regular, full-fat Greek yogurt. The authentic tang and creaminess will be exceptional.
• Optimal Storage for Freshness: To keep your vegan tzatziki at its best, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will maintain its delicious flavor and texture for up to 4 days. If you notice a little separation, simply give it a good stir before serving.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your tzatziki before serving. The amount of salt, pepper, and lemon juice can vary based on personal preference and the specific dairy-free yogurt you use. Don’t be afraid to add a little more of anything to get it just right!
• Finely Mince Garlic: For a smoother dip and to ensure the garlic flavor is well integrated without large chunks, use a very fine mince or a garlic press.

Other Irresistible Gluten-Free Dips You’ll Love:

If you’re a fan of flavorful dips, make sure to explore these other fantastic gluten-free options that are perfect for any occasion:

• Creamy Guacamole (Gluten-Free, Vegan) – A vibrant, healthy classic.
• Classic French Onion Dip (Gluten-Free) – Rich, savory, and wonderfully nostalgic.
• Easy Spinach Dip (Gluten-Free, Vegan) – A crowd-pleasing favorite, made accessible.
• Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free) – For those who love a bit of a kick!

Delightful Gluten-Free Appetizers for Any Gathering:

Complement your dairy-free tzatziki with these other amazing gluten-free appetizer ideas that are sure to impress your guests and cater to various dietary needs:

P.S. If you try this incredible dairy-free tzatziki recipe, I’d absolutely love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or share your thoughts in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is always deeply appreciated and helps others discover these delicious recipes. Be sure to explore my entire Recipe Index for all the culinary delights on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram for daily inspiration! And for a weekly dose of fresh, exciting recipes delivered right to your inbox, don’t forget to sign up for my Email List!

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Creamy Dairy-Free Tzatziki (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

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• Author: Felicia Lim
• 
  Total Time: 25 minutes
• 
  Yield: 4 servings
• 
  Diet: Vegan

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Description

Creamy, tangy, and refreshingly vibrant, this dairy-free tzatziki recipe delivers all the classic flavors of the traditional Greek dip, meticulously crafted without any dairy products. It’s the perfect versatile dip to serve with warm gluten-free pita bread, crispy falafel, an assortment of roasted vegetables, tender meat skewers, or as a delightful part of an elaborate Mediterranean mezze platter. Enjoy this simple yet exquisite vegan and gluten-free delight!

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Ingredients

Scale

• 2 cups plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (thick consistency)
• 1 large cucumber, grated and thoroughly squeezed (about 1 cup once squeezed)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced (or pressed)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill (or mint)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare Cucumber: Wash the cucumber, then grate it using the medium or large holes of a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a bowl, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and mix well. Let it rest for 5 minutes to help release excess moisture.
2. Squeeze Cucumber Dry: After 5 minutes, transfer the grated cucumber to a clean kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or a fine metal sieve. Squeeze out as much liquid as physically possible from the cucumber. This step is crucial for achieving a thick, creamy tzatziki and preventing a watery consistency.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thoroughly squeezed cucumber with the plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, finely minced fresh garlic, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
4. Mix & Chill: Stir all ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth. For enhanced flavor, allow the tzatziki to chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving. Stir again briefly before use.
5. Garnish & Serve: Garnish your dairy-free tzatziki with a sprinkle of fresh dill, a light drizzle of olive oil, and a dash of black pepper. Serve immediately with your favorite vegetable crudités, crackers, or warm pita bread.

Notes

Yogurt: Use unsweetened plain dairy-free yogurt with a thick consistency (like Greek yogurt) for best results. If not dairy-intolerant, regular plain Greek yogurt is excellent.

Cucumber: Thoroughly squeezing out the moisture from the grated cucumber is the most vital step to prevent a watery tzatziki. Don’t skip it!

Olive Oil: Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic and rich flavor profile.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for its potent, vibrant flavor. Garlic powder simply won’t yield the same delicious results.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will provide the best bright, tangy notes. Bottled lemon juice is a poor substitute.

Dill: Fresh dill or fresh mint are traditionally used. Either works beautifully, or combine both for a more complex flavor.

Storing: Store this dairy-free tzatziki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving if any separation occurs.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Chilling Time: 15 mins
• Category: Appetizers, Dips, Sauces
• Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean