If you want a fresh, tangy and easy sauce, try the Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe. This sauce is creamy, bright and full of fresh mint flavor.
It pairs perfectly with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables or falafel. Making it is simple, and the ingredients are easy to find.
In this post, I will show you how to make Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce step by step. You will also get a list of ingredients for Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce and helpful tips for best results.
My Experience With This Recipe
I made the Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe for a lamb dinner last weekend. The sauce smelled fresh and herbal.
It added a creamy, tangy flavor that balanced the richness of the meat perfectly. My family loved it and it was so easy to make.
I also tried it with roasted carrots and potatoes and it tasted amazing. The sauce is versatile, quick and brightens up any dish. It quickly became a favorite condiment at home.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Course: Sauce / Condiment
- Cuisine: American-Mediterranean
- Calories: 80 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon for serving
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of sugar for sweetness
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Mint
Wash fresh mint leaves and chop finely. Remove any thick stems. Fresh mint gives the sauce a bright and aromatic flavor. - Mix Yogurt and Lemon
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth for a creamy, tangy base. - Add Garlic and Olive Oil
Add minced garlic and olive oil to the yogurt mixture. Whisk gently to combine. This enhances flavor and adds richness. - Fold in Mint
Stir chopped mint into the yogurt mixture. Mix evenly so every spoonful has a fresh, herbal taste. - Season to Taste
Add salt and black pepper gradually. Taste and adjust seasoning. Optional: add a pinch of sugar for balance. - Chill the Sauce
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows flavors to blend and enhances taste. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve the sauce with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables or falafel. Store leftovers in the fridge for later use.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce
- Use fresh mint for a bright and vibrant flavor.
- Use thick Greek yogurt to avoid a watery sauce.
- Mince garlic finely for smooth texture.
- Chill the sauce to let flavors meld.
- Adjust lemon and salt to taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using dried mint instead of fresh reduces flavor.
- Skipping chilling time can make sauce taste flat.
- Adding too much garlic can overpower the dish.
- Using low-fat yogurt can make sauce too thin.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this sauce with grilled lamb chops, roasted potatoes or fresh vegetable platters. It also works as a dip for falafel, pita bread or as a spread for sandwiches. This sauce adds freshness and creaminess to any meal.
Variations You Can Try
- Add chopped cilantro for extra herbal flavor.
- Include a pinch of cumin for a warm spice note.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with plain yogurt for lighter sauce.
- Blend in cucumber for a tzatziki-style sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Do not heat; serve cold or at room temperature.
- Stir well before serving after storage.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
Health Benefits
This sauce is low in calories and high in protein from Greek yogurt. Mint adds antioxidants and aids digestion.
Olive oil provides healthy fats. It is a fresh, light and nutritious condiment suitable for healthy meals.
Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spoon for serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 small garlic clove minced
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of sugar for sweetness
Instructions
Prepare the Mint
- Wash fresh mint leaves and chop finely. Remove any thick stems. Fresh mint gives the sauce a bright and aromatic flavor.
Mix Yogurt and Lemon
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth for a creamy, tangy base.
Add Garlic and Olive Oil
- Add minced garlic and olive oil to the yogurt mixture. Whisk gently to combine. This enhances flavor and adds richness.
Fold in Mint
- Stir chopped mint into the yogurt mixture. Mix evenly so every spoonful has a fresh, herbal taste.
Season to Taste
- Add salt and black pepper gradually. Taste and adjust seasoning. Optional: add a pinch of sugar for balance.
Chill the Sauce
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows flavors to blend and enhances taste.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the sauce with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables or falafel. Store leftovers in the fridge for later use.
Notes
- Use fresh mint for a bright and vibrant flavor.
- Use thick Greek yogurt to avoid a watery sauce.
- Mince garlic finely for smooth texture.
- Chill the sauce to let flavors meld.
- Adjust lemon and salt to taste.
FAQs about Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce
Q1: Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?
Fresh mint is recommended for flavor and aroma. Dried mint can be used, but reduce quantity and add gradually.
Q2: Can I prepare this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, make the sauce a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Flavors improve as it chills.
Q3: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt gives a thicker, creamier texture. Regular yogurt may be runnier.
Q4: Can this sauce be frozen?
It is not recommended. Freezing may change texture and cause separation. Serve fresh for best results.
Final Thoughts
The Ina Garten Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe is easy, fresh and versatile. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, anyone can make it at home.
It pairs beautifully with lamb, vegetables or falafel, adding a creamy and tangy flavor. This sauce is quick, healthy and perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
Enjoy making and sharing this bright, flavorful and easy-to-make sauce with family and friends.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!