5-Ingredient Garlic Yogurt Sauce at the Table

A pita chip dipped into a bowl of garlic yogurt sauce surrounded by more pita chips.

This Garlic Yogurt Sauce requires just five ingredients and a few minutes of prep time — it couldn’t be any easier! Rich and savory with a hint of heat, it’s simple to prepare and reliable for serving as a simple dip or condiment to pack tons of flavor into your go-to meals.

A bowl of garlic yogurt sauce on a plate with pita chips.

Simple Garlic Yogurt Sauce with Jalapeño and Tahini

We love a good sauce! Don’t you?

Sauces are such an simple and fun way to switch up the flavor of meals. However, store-bought varieties are often lacking in the flavor department and typically don’t have the finest ingredients.

So, more often than not, we make our own sauces at home instead, and this garlic yogurt sauce is one of our go-to options for a speedy, crowd-pleasing option. Inspired by our Lebanese toum, it offers a new flavor profile with lots of savoriness and just a touch of heat.

It’s reliable for adding to sandwiches and wraps or serving on its own with dippers! Plus, it has a total time of just a few minutes and stores well, meaning you can always keep a batch on hand.

What Is Garlic Yogurt Sauce Made Of?

Jalapeño Pepper – Use a whole jalapeño, and remove the seeds and membrane before you begin. This creates the reliable amount of heat!
Garlic – Whole, fresh garlic cloves are finest for this recipe. Powdered garlic won’t work well.
Salt – Adjust to taste.
Yogurt – Use plain regular yogurt or Greek yogurt. We highly recommend full-fat varieties for the richest taste and creamiest texture!
Tahini Paste – Use high-quality tahini with minimal ingredients. This adds a subtly nutty flavor and a creamier texture.

Become the Sauce Boss with this Simple Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Prepare the jalapeño. Before you begin, remove the stems and seeds from the jalapeño. Then, cut it into quarters. This makes it easier to blend!
Blend the jalapeño and garlic. Use a mortar and pestle to blend the jalapeño pieces and minced garlic together until they form a paste.

Pro-Tip: If you’re having trouble blending the ingredients, add the salt at this time. It helps break down the mixture and enhance the flavor.

Combine the remaining ingredients. Transfer the jalapeño mixture to a food processor or blender along with the remaining ingredients. Pulse until a smooth, silky consistency is achieved. Adjust the seasonings as desired.

Flavor Variations

Add herbs – Add a vibrant taste and create a completely new flavor profile with a couple of tablespoons of your go-to fresh herbs. Parsley, cilantro, mint, dill, and tarragon would all taste great!
Use roasted garlic – Enhance the garlic flavor and add a subtle smokiness by roasting the garlic cloves before adding them to the sauce.
Include citrus – Include a splash of lemon juice or lime juice for a touch of brightness.
Omit the tahini – Omit the tahini for a simple sauce with a bolder garlic flavor.

A pita chip dipped into a bowl of garlic yogurt sauce.

Ways to Use

Use this speedy garlic yogurt sauce as a dip with pretzels, chips, crackers, and veggie sticks, Or, spread it on chicken, fish, sandwiches, or wraps.

It can even be included in grain bowls and salads! Use it to add flavor to all your go-to meals.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

We don’t recommend freezing this recipe as the dairy will not thaw well.

Common Questions about 5-Ingredient Garlic Yogurt Sauce

What kind of yogurt works finest?

Plain Greek yogurt is our fave—it’s thick, tangy, and super silky. You can use regular plain yogurt, too, just expect a thinner sauce.

Is this sauce spicy?

It has a little heat, but not too much! If you want to dial it up, add a pinch of chili flakes or a swirl of harissa.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Use your go-to unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (like coconut or almond). The texture may vary, but the flavor still shines.

Can I use fresh or roasted garlic?

We typically use fresh garlic, but either works! Fresh garlic gives a sharp bite, while roasted garlic adds a mellow, caramelized flavor. Go with whatever vibe you’re craving!

More From-scratch Sauces and Dips

Need more dips and sauciness in your life? We’re right there with you! Here are a few more that top our list of favorites!

the Ayyem kitchenServings: 12 servings

Prep: 8 mins
Total: 8 mins

Prepare this simple garlic yogurt sauce with just five ingredients and less than ten minutes to add flavor to all your go-to meals! Email

Ingredients

1 jalapeño pepper
1 garlic clove
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 cups full fat yogurt can be subbed with low-fat but won’t be as silky
1/3 cup tahini paste stirred

Instructions

Begin by preparing the jalapeño and garlic. Remove the stems and seeds from the jalapeño, and cut it into quarters to make it easier to blend.1 jalapeño pepper
User a mortar and pestle to blend the jalapeño and garlic together until they become soft and form a paste. The salt can be added during this step to help break down the ingredients and enhance the flavor.1 garlic clove, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Once the jalapeño and garlic have been properly blended, transfer them to a food processor or blender.
Add the remaining ingredients to the food processor: 2 cups of yogurt and 1/3 cup of tahini paste.2 cups full fat yogurt, 1/3 cup tahini paste
Blend all the ingredients together in the food processor until a smooth and silky consistency is achieved. This should take a few minutes, depending on the power of the machine.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt or tahini if desired.
Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency and flavor, transfer it to a serving bowl.
Refrigerate the sauce for a while to allow the flavors to meld, and serve it chilled. Alternatively, serve the sauce immediately, or store it for up to a week in the fridge.
Enjoy this silky yogurt sauce with a hint of jalapeño and tahini as a tasty accompaniment to chips, fresh vegetables, or as a flavorful sauce for various dishes.