Ingredients

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat, plain)
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Hot Dogs:

  • 4 high-quality beef or lamb hot dogs
  • 4 hot dog buns (preferably brioche or soft white buns)
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Grater
  • Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

  1. Grate the cucumber using a box grater. Place the grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Cover and refrigerate the tzatziki sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. (Can be made a day ahead.)

Step 2: Prepare the Toppings

  1. Thinly slice the red onion and halve the cherry tomatoes. Set aside.
  2. Pit and slice the Kalamata olives if not pre-sliced.
  3. Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces if not pre-crumbled.
  4. Chop the fresh parsley for garnish.

Step 3: Grill the Hot Dogs

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
  2. Place the hot dogs on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and have nice grill marks.
  3. Optional: Lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1–2 minutes until golden.

Step 4: Assemble the Greek Tzatziki Dogs

  1. Place a grilled hot dog in each bun.
  2. Spoon a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over each hot dog (about 2–3 tablespoons per dog).
  3. Top with sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
  4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and, if desired, a pinch of dried oregano for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve immediately with napkins, as these can be delightfully messy!
  2. Pair with sides like Greek salad, fries, or pita chips for a complete meal.

Tips

  • Make Ahead: The tzatziki sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the hot dogs with plant-based sausages or grilled zucchini slices.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the tzatziki for a subtle kick.
  • Storage: Leftover tzatziki sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Do not freeze.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 350–400 kcal
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Enjoy your Greek Tzatziki Dogs!