Pin this Last summer my neighbor Sarah brought over a tub of this bright green dip after I helped her move some patio furniture, and I ended up eating half of it with carrot sticks while we sat on her back steps watching the sunset. She laughed when I asked for the recipe, saying it was the easiest thing in her repertoire but somehow always impressed people at parties. Now I make a batch every Sunday and keep it in the fridge for those moments when I need something fresh and satisfying.
I made this for my book club last month and three people asked if they could take some home, which is basically the highest compliment a dip can receive. My friend Maria, who claims to hate yogurt, was dipping crackers into it before I even told her what it was. There is something magical about how the herbs bloom after sitting in the fridge for a bit.
Ingredients
- Greek yogurt: Use whole milk Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture, though low fat works if you prefer something lighter
- Fresh dill: The key to that bright Mediterranean flavor, and fresh makes all the difference here
- Fresh chives: Add a mild onion note that balances the tang without being overpowering
- Fresh parsley: Brings a grassy fresh element that makes everything taste brighter
- Fresh mint: Optional but adds this lovely cooling surprise that people cannot quite place
- Garlic: One small clove is enough to give it backbone without scaring anyone away
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed cuts through the rich yogurt and wakes everything up
- Lemon zest: The oils in the zest carry so much aromatic lemon flavor
- Salt and pepper: Essential for making all those fresh herb flavors pop
Instructions
- Mix your base:
- Combine the Greek yogurt with all those chopped fresh herbs in a medium bowl and watch it turn the most beautiful pale green color.
- Add the punchy stuff:
- Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly distributed.
- Give it a taste:
- Dip in a spoon or carrot stick to see if you need more salt, lemon, or garlic.
- Let it rest:
- Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can get properly acquainted.
- Serve it up:
- Set it out with whatever you like to dip, from veggies to pita chips to crusty bread.
Pin this My daughter now requests this for her school snacks instead of ranch, which feels like a major parenting victory.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I swap in basil or tarragon depending on what looks good at the market, and once I added a tiny pinch of cayenne which gave it this gentle warmth that was surprisingly good.
Storage And Make Ahead
This keeps beautifully for three days in an airtight container, and honestly it tastes even better on day two when all the herbs have had more time to infuse the yogurt.
Serving Ideas
Beyond the obvious veggie platter, try spreading this on a turkey sandwich or serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. The tangy creaminess makes almost anything taste better.
- Thin it with a little water for a quick salad dressing
- Use it as a sauce for grain bowls or roasted vegetables
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs for a breakfast that feels fancy
Pin this This is one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients treated right can be absolutely extraordinary.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor and texture. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity to one-third (about 2 teaspoons total) as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- → How long does this dip need to chill before serving?
Allow at least 30 minutes of refrigeration for the flavors to meld together properly. You can make it up to a day ahead for even better flavor development.
- → What can I serve with this dip?
This versatile dip pairs beautifully with fresh vegetable crudités, pita chips, crackers, flatbreads, or grilled meats. It also works wonderfully as a sandwich or wrap spread.
- → Can I make this dip dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative such as coconut yogurt or cashew-based yogurt. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.
- → How can I adjust the consistency if it's too thick?
If the dip is thicker than desired, thin it out by stirring in a small amount of lemon juice, olive oil, or water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the preferred consistency.
- → What other herb combinations work well?
Try basil and oregano for an Italian twist, cilantro and lime for a Latin flair, or tarragon and chervil for a French-inspired version. Feel free to experiment based on what you're serving it with.