Tzatziki is a beloved Mediterranean staple, known for its creamy texture, refreshing cucumber, and bright herbs. This version stays true to the traditional flavors but introduces a subtle nutty depth with pistachio butter. While olive oil or tahini is often used to add richness, pistachio butter brings a unique twist, enhancing both texture and flavor without overpowering the classic elements.
Printable recipe: https://californiagrown.org/recipes/tzatziki-sauce-recipe/
Pistachio Butter Tatziki
Prep time: 15 mins
Chill time: 30 mins
Yield: 8 servings
For the pistachio butter tzatziki:
1 cup Greek yogurt
½ cup CA GROWN pistachio butter
2 English cucumbers seeded, grated, strained
1 lemon zested and juiced
½ cup mint finely chopped
2 TBSP dried oregano
1 clove garlic microplaned or pressed
1 TBSP olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Optional to garnish:
2 TBSP various toppings lemon zest, herbs, or our CA GROWN pistachio gremolata recipe.
To prepare the pistachio butter tzatziki sauce:
Grate the cucumbers with a box grater using the largest holes and place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and pistachio butter until smooth and fully combined.
Stir in the grated cucumber, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped mint, dried oregano, and garlic. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Drizzle in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the lemon juice or salt as needed for balance.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish if desired, when ready to serve.
To store:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as some separation may occur. Freezing is not recommended due to the yogurt’s texture.
Other CA GROWN recipes mentioned in this video:
Pistachio Butter: https://californiagrown.org/recipes/pistachio-butter/
Pistachio Gremolata: https://californiagrown.org/recipes/gremolata/
Visit our blog for recipes, farmer features, DIY ideas, and more: https://californiagrown.org/blog/
Get our guide to what’s in season in California here: https://californiagrown.org/blog/whats-in-season-in-california/
Learn how to tell where your food is from here: https://californiagrown.org/how-to-support-our-california-farmers/
Follow CA GROWN on social:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cagrown
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cagrownofficial
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/cagrown/