Last Updated on February 18, 2023 by Shari Mason
Tzatziki is a traditional Greek sauce made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and other seasonings. It’s a delicious and refreshing condiment for dipping vegetables, pita bread, or as a sauce for grilled meats.
Proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor, so it’s essential to understand how to store it correctly and how long it can last in the fridge.
We will discuss how long homemade tzatziki can last and how to store it properly to keep it fresh for as long as possible.
How Long Is Homemade Tzatziki Good For?
Homemade tzatziki can last for four days in the refrigerator if stored correctly.
The primary factor determining the shelf life of homemade tzatziki is the freshness of the yogurt [1] used. If the yogurt is close to its expiration date or has been open for a long time, it can cause the tzatziki to spoil more quickly.
It’s also essential to keep the tzatziki refrigerated and use clean utensils when scooping it out to avoid contamination.
If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, mold, or discoloration, it’s best to discard it to avoid any health risks.
How To Make It
The essential ingredients are Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and dill.
To start, peel and grate one medium-sized cucumber, then squeeze out the excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cucumber, 1 cup of Greek yogurt, two minced garlic cloves, one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and one tablespoon of chopped fresh dill.
“I just got tired of being overweight and unfit, so I changed my diet from hamburgers to yogurt and muesli, and it seems to work.”
– Peter Jackson, New Zealand Film Director
Mix the ingredients until well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
The longer the tzatziki sits, the more the flavors develop. Once it’s chilled, please give it a quick stir before serving, and enjoy it as a dip, spread, or sauce.
Can You Freeze Tzatziki Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze tzatziki sauce, but with caution. If you must freeze tzatziki, it’s best to do so in a sealed, airtight container, and keep in mind that it may have a different texture and flavor than fresh tzatziki.
The high-water content of cucumbers [2] can cause them to release more liquid when frozen and thawed, leading to a loss of flavor and texture.
Moreover, yogurt can change in texture and taste when frozen, leading to a less appealing tzatziki sauce.
5 Signs That It Has Gone Bad
- Sour or Off Odor: If your tzatziki sauce has a sour or off odor, it indicates that it has gone bad and should be discarded.
- Separation: If your tzatziki sauce has separated into different layers, with a layer of liquid on top, it is a sign that it has gone bad and should be discarded.
- Discoloration: If the tzatziki sauce has changed color or has dark spots, it may have gone bad and should not be consumed.
- Mold: If you notice any mold growing on the surface of the tzatziki sauce, it’s a clear sign that it has spoiled and should be discarded.
- Sour Taste: If the tzatziki sauce tastes sour or has an off flavor, it’s a sign that it has gone bad and should be thrown away.
Tips On How To Store Tzatziki Sauce
- Refrigerate Immediately: After making or buying tzatziki sauce, it’s essential to store it in the refrigerator immediately. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature, and leaving tzatziki sauce out for too long can cause it to spoil quickly.
- Use An Airtight Container: When storing tzatziki sauce in the fridge, always use an airtight container to prevent the absorption of odors and flavors from other foods. This will help preserve the taste and quality of the sauce.
- Label The Container: It’s essential to label the container with the date it was made or stored so you can track how long it’s been in the fridge.
- Keep It In The Back Of The Fridge: The back of the fridge is the coldest part and the best place to store tzatziki sauce. This will help keep it fresh for longer.
- Stir Before Serving: Tzatziki sauce can separate in the fridge, so it’s essential to give it a good stir before serving to ensure it’s well-mixed.
- Don’t Freeze: Freezing tzatziki sauce is not recommended as it can change the texture and flavor. It’s best to make a fresh batch when needed.
FAQs
How long does tzatziki last out of the fridge?
Tzatziki can last for 3 hours at room temperature, depending on the conditions of the storage area.
Why is my tzatziki sauce watery?
Tzatziki sauce can become watery if the cucumbers are not drained correctly or if the yogurt has high water content.
Is tzatziki healthier than hummus?
Tzatziki and hummus are both healthy dips, but their nutritional value varies. Tzatziki is lower in calories and fat than hummus but higher in protein and fiber.
Final Thoughts
Homemade tzatziki is a delicious and versatile condiment used in many dishes.
When stored correctly in the fridge, tzatziki can last up to four days, possibly even longer if it’s kept at a consistently cold temperature and has been included for a short time.
By following the tips for proper storage, you can help extend the shelf life of your homemade tzatziki, ensuring that you have a tasty and fresh dip to enjoy for several days.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that tzatziki, like any other food, can spoil quickly, so it’s crucial to keep an eye out for any signs of spoilage and discard any sauce that appears to have gone bad.
References:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/295714
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-of-cucumber
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