A sunny afternoon, friends gathered around a table laden with mouthwatering dishes. You can smell the grilled lamb skewers as they sizzle away, and nearby, a vibrant plate of Mediterranean vegetables sits tantalizingly. Ah, but wait — what’s this?
That creamy, refreshing dip in the center, glowing with its rich blend of flavors? It’s Arby’s Tzatziki sauce, the perfect companion to any Mediterranean-inspired feast.
This sauce transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, elevating your dish with every cool spoonful. Whether it’s slathered on a warm pita or dolloped over grilled meats, this tzatziki is bound to impress. As a food enthusiast, I’ve explored the depths of flavor for years, crafting recipes and experimenting with pairings. And trust me, this tzatziki sauce should find a proud place on your table.
What Is Arby’s Tzatziki Sauce?
Arby’s Tzatziki sauce is more than just a condiment; it’s a refreshing blend of yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and herbs that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
The balance is key: creamy sour cream meets vibrant veggies, and the garlic gives it just the right punch. Originating from Greece, tzatziki has become a beloved staple in various cuisines, and Arby’s version captures it wonderfully.
The Ingredients
Let’s dive into what makes this sauce come alive. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 medium-sized cucumbers, peeled and grated
- 2 teaspoons sea salt, plus more for taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
- 2 teaspoons finely minced fresh garlic
- 16 ounces full-fat sour cream
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt
With simple ingredients like these, the magic can happen right in your kitchen.
How to Make Arby’s Tzatziki Sauce
Making Arby’s tzatziki sauce at home is easy. It requires only a few steps, yet the results are impressive. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to whip it up.
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Start by peeling the cucumbers. Grate them into fine pieces using a box grater. The goal here is to extract as much moisture as possible from the cucumbers to avoid a watery sauce.
Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers
In a bowl, mix the grated cucumbers with 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This process draws out excess water, concentrating the cucumber flavor while keeping your tzatziki thick.
Step 3: Rinse and Drain
Once the cucumbers have released water, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain them well using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out any remaining moisture. You want dry cucumbers for the best texture.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained cucumbers with the sour cream and Greek yogurt. Add the minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and ground white pepper (if using). This is where the magic happens.
Step 5: Mix and Taste
Use a spatula to mix everything. Taste the sauce as you go. You can always adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, lemon, or garlic depending on your preference.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled with your favorite dishes.
Notes
Here are five tips to ensure your tzatziki sauce turns out perfectly each time:
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your cucumbers, yogurt, and herbs can dramatically impact the flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: If it’s too thick, stir in a little more Greek yogurt or a splash of water; if too thin, consider draining the cucumbers longer.
- Herb Variations: If you’re not a fan of dill, consider using mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Level: Garlic can be potent. Start with less and increase to meet your taste.
- Pair the Dip: This sauce is versatile. Pair it with anything from grilled meats to veggies or even use it as a salad dressing.
Storage Tips
Store extra tzatziki in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Just remember, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!
Nutrition Information
For those watching their intake, here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (about 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 70
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
Serving Suggestions
This tzatziki sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some scrumptious serving suggestions:
- Dippable Delight: Slice up fresh veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or celery for a health-centered dip.
- Serve it at parties or as a snack for kids – it’s a fun and healthy treat!
- Gyro Lover’s Dream: Spread tzatziki on a warm pita stuffed with grilled chicken or falafel.
- The creamy sauce complements the savory flavors beautifully, making every bite irresistible.
- Grilled Goodness: Use it alongside grilled lamb kebabs or chicken skewers.
- The cooling effect of the tzatziki contrasts perfectly with the warmth of grilled meats.
- Mediterranean Bowl: Spoon tzatziki over a grain bowl filled with brown rice, chickpeas, and veggies.
- It ties all the elements together, creating a nourishing and flavorful dish.
- Sandwich Spread: Use as a dressing for your favorite sandwiches instead of mayonnaise.
- It brings a delightful twist to any sandwich and keeps it light.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Arby’s Tzatziki Sauce?
If you’re missing an ingredient or looking for variations, here are some tasty substitutes:
- Greek Yogurt Replacement: Sour cream works as an alternative if you’re out of Greek yogurt. It will still give you that creamy texture.
- Dill Substitute: Fresh parsley or mint can substitute for dill for a different herbaceous taste.
- Garlic Replacement: Garlic powder can be used if you don’t have fresh garlic, though fresh offers a stronger flavor.
- Lemon Juice Alternative: Red wine vinegar can be a substitute for lemon juice. This will impart a tangy flavor.
- Cucumber Swap: Zucchini can be a fun alternative. It provides a similar texture and flavor profile when grated.
Arby’s Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- cheesecloth
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized cucumbers peeled and grated
- 2 teaspoons sea salt plus more for seasoning if needed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper for a mild peppery flavor, optional
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
- 2 teaspoons finely minced fresh garlic
- 16 ounces full-fat sour cream
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang
Instructions
- Start by peeling the cucumbers. Grate them into fine pieces using a box grater. The goal here is to extract as much moisture as possible from the cucumbers to avoid a watery sauce.
- In a bowl, mix the grated cucumbers with 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This process draws out excess water, concentrating the cucumber flavor while keeping your tzatziki thick.
- Once the cucumbers have released water, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain them well using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out any remaining moisture. You want dry cucumbers for the best texture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained cucumbers with the sour cream and Greek yogurt. Add the minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and ground white pepper (if using). This is where the magic happens.
- Use a spatula to mix everything. Taste the sauce as you go. You can always adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, lemon, or garlic depending on your preference.
- Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled with your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your cucumbers, yogurt, and herbs can dramatically impact the flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: If it’s too thick, stir in a little more Greek yogurt or a splash of water; if too thin, consider draining the cucumbers longer.
- Herb Variations: If you’re not a fan of dill, consider using mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Level: Garlic can be potent. Start with less and increase to meet your taste.
- Pair the Dip: This sauce is versatile. Pair it with anything from grilled meats to veggies or even use it as a salad dressing.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Creating Arby’s tzatziki sauce is a flavorful adventure that anyone can embark upon. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, it transforms simple meals into delightful culinary experiences.
From dipping veggies to topping grilled meats, this sauce brings a refreshing punch to your plate. Give it a try, and let your taste buds travel to the Mediterranean with every bite. Happy cooking!
