Here's a flavorful, creamy, and zesty Jalapeno Tzatziki with Feta Cheese that brings a spicy twist to your traditional Greek yogurt dip. Perfect for scooping, dipping, or drizzling—this easy appetizer recipe will be your new favorite dip!
Why You'll Love It
There's nothing like a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce to liven up just about any meal—and this Jalapeno Tzatziki with Feta Cheese takes things up a delicious notch!
Traditional tzatziki is refreshing and tangy, but adding a kick of jalapeno and a salty crumble of feta turns it into a next-level dip that'll have you craving more with each bite.
It's brightened up with fresh mint and lemon juice, balanced by creamy Greek yogurt, and rounded out with a little richness from Graza finishing olive oil.
The gentle (or intense depending on how much you add!) ) spice from the grated jalapeno perfectly contrasts the cool cucumber and creamy feta cheese, creating a dip that's both addictively spicy and refreshingly cool.
Whether you're scooping it with warm pita bread, crunchy veggies, these insanely delicious Olive Oil Baked Crackers from FIREHOOK Crackers or dolloping it over grilled meats and veggies, this Jalapeno Tzatziki is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Plus, it comes together in minutes and gets better the longer it sits—making it perfect for meal prep, party apps, or as a flavorful sauce to elevate weekday dinners.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here are the simple ingredients that you'll need to make this spicy jalapeno tzatziki dip recipe. For exact amounts, be sure to check out my recipe card below.
- Greek Yogurt: Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest, richest results. You could use reduced-fat or dairy-free yogurt or even sour cream if desired, though the consistency and taste will not be the same.
- Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds refreshing crunch and moisture. Be sure to squeeze excess water from your grated cucumber to avoid watery tzatziki - but you could leave it if you wanted a runnier dip.
- Red Onion: Adds a subtle bite and depth of flavor. If you prefer less bite, you can swap in shallots or garlic or just leave it out completely.
- Jalapeno: Fresh jalapeno adds just the right amount of heat. For more heat, include the seeds; for a milder flavor, remove them or use a poblano pepper instead. You could also use a serrano pepper or even pickled jalapenos if you wanted.
- Feta Cheese: Salty, tangy feta perfectly complements the creamy Greek yogurt and fresh herbs. Goat cheese or queso fresco can also work if you prefer a milder cheese flavor. Or just leave it out if you don't want it cheesy.
- Dried Dill: Dill is a classic ingredient in tzatziki, providing a light, fresh flavor. Fresh dill can be substituted -- just double the quantity.
- Fresh Mint: Adds brightness and freshness. Basil or parsley are tasty alternatives if you are not a fan of mint.
- Lemon Juice: Adds zesty brightness. Fresh lime juice or even a splash of vinegar can work if you are out of lemons.
- Graza Finishing Olive Oil: High-quality finishing olive oil makes a huge flavor difference, adding a luxurious finish. Use your favorite good-quality olive oil if Graza isn't accessible.
- Kosher Salt & Fresh Cracked Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors—adjust to your preference and be sure to note that table salt will be saltier so definitely keep that in mind.
How to Make It
Here are the simple steps you'll need to take to make this yummy greek inspired dip. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days - just make sure to stir it if it gets watery.
- PREP INGREDIENTS: Using a box grater, grate the cucumber. Gently squeeze it over the sink to remove any of the excess moisture. This will help the dip stay thick and creamy. You'll also want to grate the onion and jalapeno. These do not need to be strained since they aren't as watery.
- ADD INGREDIENTS: n a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, grated red onion, grated jalapeno, crumbled feta, dried dill, minced fresh mint, lemon juice, Graza finishing olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper. If you like it super spicy, feel free to add another whole grated jalapeno to the mix.
- MIX AND CHILL: Stir gently until everything is combined evenly. Cover the bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to meld and enhance.
- SERVE IT UP: After chilling, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve this creamy, spicy, cool dip alongside warm pita bread, crackers, grilled veggies, or your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
- STORE: You can place any of your spicy feta jalpeno dip leftovers in an airtight container. It keeps it in the fridge for four days. Before serving, make sure to stir thoroughly.
What goes with this Spicy Tzatziki dip?
Here are some of my favorite easy recipes to serve with this spicy and creamy jalapeno tzatziki dip with feta cheese:
- Crispy Greek Pita Fries with Homemade Tzatziki
- Mediterranean Rice Bowl
- Ground Lamb Gyro Recipe
- Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs
- Greek Appetizer Spread
And you might also want to check out my Grinder Feta Dip or my classic Easy Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
Recipe
Jalapeno Tzatziki Dip with Feta Cheese
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Greek Yogurt full-fat
- ½ cup Cucumber grated and gently strained to remove excess moisture
- 1 tablespoon Red Onion grated
- 1-2 large Jalapeno grated
- ½ cup Feta Cheese crumbled
- 1 teaspoon Dried Dill
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Mint finely minced
- ½ large Lemon juiced
- 1 tablespoon Finishing Olive Oil
- 1 pinch Kosher Salt
- a few cranks Fresh Cracked Pepper
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl and let rest for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with pita bread, crackers, veggies, or use it as a topping for grilled meats and salads. Enjoy!
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