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This Quick and Easy Vegan Tzatziki is a plant-based take on the classic Greek sauce!
Made with unsweetened plant-based yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, and dill, it’s a creamy, tangy, and refreshing sauce perfect for dipping, spreading, or drizzling over your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
This Easy Vegan Tzatziki is inspired by traditional tzatziki but made entirely plant-based and oil-free!
It’s light, creamy, and full of fresh flavors from cucumber, garlic, and dill. Whether serving it as a dip for fresh veggies and pita, drizzling it over grain bowls, or using it as a spread in wraps, this dairy-free version is just as delicious as the original!
On a recent trip, I tried tzatziki at a small family-run Greek restaurant (with vegan options!), and my whole family absolutely loved it. The creamy, tangy flavors paired perfectly with everything we ate, and I knew I had to recreate it at home—but in a Whole Food Plant-Based version.
This recipe presents my interpretation of that culinary experience, making it entirely oil-free and vegan while retaining all the delicious flavors.
I invite you to try this easy, tasty recipe and share it with your family and friends! It’s a refreshing, creamy sauce that elevates any dish and is perfect for dipping, spreading, or drizzling your favorite Mediterranean meals.
WHAT ALLERGENS/INGREDIENTS IS THIS RECIPE FREE FROM?
This Recipe is:
- Dairy-Free – Uses plant-based yogurt instead of traditional dairy, making it suitable for those who are lactose-intolerant or avoid dairy.
- Egg-Free – Completely plant-based with no animal products, making it ideal for vegans and those with egg allergies.
- Nut-Free and/or Soy-Free – The choice of plant-based yogurt determines this; using oat or coconut yogurt keeps it nut-free and soy-free.
- Gluten-Free – Contains no gluten-based ingredients, making it safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
- Refined Sugar-Free – No added refined sugars, ensuring a healthier alternative with natural flavors from fresh ingredients.
- Oil-Free – Made without added oils, keeping it whole-food, plant-based, and low in processed fats.
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS AND WHY IS GOOD FOR YOU
This recipe is:
Oil-Free & Dairy-Free – Uses unsweetened plant-based yogurt for a creamy texture without needing oil or dairy.
Hydrating & Refreshing – Cucumber adds a crisp, refreshing element that makes this perfect for warm weather.
Gut-Friendly – Fermented plant-based yogurt supports healthy digestion.
Full of Mediterranean Flavor – Garlic, lemon, and dill add that authentic Greek taste!
HOW TO PREPARE THIS VEGAN TZATZIKI
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
Preparing this recipe is super easy—just grate the cucumber, mix all the ingredients in a bowl, let it chill, and enjoy a creamy, refreshing sauce!
Let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:
- Mixing bowl – To combine the ingredients.
- Spatula – For mixing and scraping the sides of the bowl.
- Box grater – To finely grate the cucumber for the perfect tzatziki texture.
- Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth – To remove excess liquid from the grated cucumber.
Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this recipe:
- Unsweetened plant-based yogurt – The creamy base for the tzatziki, adding richness and tang. Cashew, soy, or almond yogurt are my favorite. Substitute for Coconut-based yogurt or tofu.
- Cucumber – Provides a refreshing, hydrating element and slight crunch.
- Lemon juice – Enhances the tanginess and freshness of the sauce.
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds depth and slight acidity—substitute: White wine vinegar or more lemon juice.
- Garlic – Gives the tzatziki its signature bold flavor. Adjust to taste—substitute: Garlic powder (in a pinch).
- Fresh dill – Provides classic Mediterranean herbal flavor—substitute: Dried dill (use less if substituting).
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavors. Adjust to taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a slight spice and depth of flavor. Substitute: White pepper or omit if preferred.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To prepare this sauce, follow these steps:
Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess liquid.
Mix plant-based yogurt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, dill, salt, and black pepper.
Add the grated cucumber and mix well.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve chilled as a dip, dressing, or sauce for wraps and bowls.
WHAT WILL YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS RECIPE?
Well, you will find that it is:
- Easy to Make – Simple steps with minimal prep time.
- Healthy – Made with whole food plant-based ingredients and free from oil, refined sugar, and gluten.
- Creamy and Flavorful – The combination of yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill gives it a rich and tangy taste.
- Versatile – Use it as a dip, dressing, or spread in various dishes.
- Family-Friendly – Loved by both vegans and non-vegans alike.
- Hydrating – Cucumber adds a refreshing, hydrating element that is perfect for warm weather.
Let’s prepare this delicious recipe!
MORE CONDIMENT OR SAUCE RECIPES TO TRY!
PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
QUICK AND EASY VEGAN TZATZIKI (WFPB)
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based yogurt (soy or cashew-based works best)
- 1/2 cucumber (grated, excess liquid squeezed out)
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 or 2 garlic cloves minced or grated (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill (chopped or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- black pepper (Freshly ground, to taste)
Instructions
- Grate the cucumber using a fine grater, then squeeze out excess liquid using a cheesecloth or paper towel. This prevents the sauce from being too watery.
- Whisk together the plant-based yogurt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, dill, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Add the grated cucumber and stir well to combine.
- Let the tzatziki sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve chilled as a dip, dressing, or sauce for wraps, bowls, or grilled veggies.
Notes
- For a thicker consistency, drain excess liquid from the yogurt using a cheesecloth.
- If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
- Letting the tzatziki chill longer enhances the flavors.
- If substituting dried dill for fresh, use half the amount.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS RECIPE
- As a dip – Serve with fresh veggies, whole wheat pita, or crackers.
- In wraps or sandwiches – Add it to falafel wraps, gyros, or veggie-packed sandwiches.
- As a dressing – Drizzle over grain bowls, salads, or roasted vegetables.
- With Mediterranean dishes – Pairs perfectly with vegan souvlaki, lentil kofta, or grilled tofu skewers.
