If you’re looking for a simple, versatile sauce that adds richness, tang, and a boost of probiotics to any dish, this yogurt sauce is it. It comes together in just five minutes, works beautifully on both hot and cold dishes, and instantly elevates flavors.
Drizzle it over grilled veggies, serve it alongside vegetarian fritters, or use it as a cooling contrast to spicy dishes. This sauce plays well with others, making it an essential kitchen staple.
Why This Recipe is the Best
5-Minute Magic – No special equipment needed, just a bowl and a spoon.
Naturally Creamy & Rich – Thanks to whole milk Greek yogurt and olive oil, this sauce is richly satsifying.
Probiotic Boost – Packed with gut-friendly bacteria from the yogurt.
Pairs with Everything – Works on grilled veggies, falafel, grain bowls, wraps, and more!
Cold & Hot Dish Approved – Unlike some yogurt-based sauces, this one holds up beautifully on warm dishes.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Herb It Up – Stir in chopped parsley, dill, mint, or cilantro for a fresh twist.
- Spice It Up – Add ½ tsp cumin or za’atar for a Middle Eastern flair.
- More Heat? Stir in a pinch of Aleppo pepper or cayenne for a slight kick.
Recipe Tips & FAQs
How to Elevate This Sauce
Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving—this helps the garlic infuse into the sauce.
Use a Microplane to grate the garlic instead of crushing it for an even silkier texture.
Make a double batch! It’s so versatile that you’ll want leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. If using regular yogurt, start with ¾ cup and adjust for consistency.
Does this sauce work with hot dishes?
Absolutely! It holds up well and won’t curdle when spooned over warm grains, roasted meats, or sautéed veggies.
How do I make it last longer?
Since it contains fresh garlic, it’s best within 3-4 days. If you need it to last longer, omit the garlic and add it fresh when serving.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Nope—yogurt doesn’t freeze well and can become grainy when thawed.
Storage & Serving Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- For a Thinner Sauce: Whisk in 1 tbsp water at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- For a Thicker Dip: Use strained Greek yogurt or let it sit in the fridge for an hour to firm up.
How to Use This Sauce (Serving Suggestions)
Drizzle it over:
- Grilled vegetables – Zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers
- Warm grain bowls – Quinoa or brown rice
- Spiced roasted chickpeas – Adds a creamy contrast
Use it as a dip for:
- Fresh sliced cucumber
- Baby carrots
- Radishes
- Crispy roasted potatoes
Pair it with:
- Roasted Chicken – Season the thighs with Za’atar before serving. The tangy yogurt balances out the warm spices.
- Spicy Lamb Meatballs – A cooling contrast to the heat.
- Carrot & Lentil Fritters – Spoon it over the top before serving.
Final Thoughts
This 5-minute yogurt sauce is one of those kitchen essentials that makes every meal better. Whether you’re drizzling it, dipping into it, or spreading it onto your favorite foods, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Try it out and let me know your favorite way to use it!
Yogurt Sauce
Special Equipment
- None
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice, (about half of a large, juicy lemon)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic, crushed (about 2 cloves)
- sea salt to taste
- freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, mix together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. Check for seasoning. Store in an air tight refrigerated container until ready to use, up to 3 to 4 days.
- Alchemize it: Feel free to add some chopped up parsley, dill or cilantro to this recipe. It’s a great way to make it your own.
Hi, I’m Julia.
I’m a chef and wellness advocate passionate about helping others live well through nourishing food. I trained at the Culinary Institute of America and now work as a personal chef and community food advocate in Atlanta.
Want to know what inspired me to start Everyday Alchemy? Read my story here: https://kse.iop.mybluehost.me/about/