Shawarma Sauce Recipe
Shawarma sauce is the perfect creamy, tangy condiment that elevates grilled meats, wraps, and sandwiches. Its combination of garlic, yogurt, and lemon creates a rich, flavorful sauce that complements Middle Eastern dishes beautifully. Making it at home is quick, simple, and far more satisfying than store-bought versions.
This sauce is versatile enough for chicken, beef, lamb, or even roasted vegetables. With a few pantry staples, you can whip up a fresh, tangy, and garlicky sauce that brings authentic shawarma flavor to your meals. Its creamy texture ensures every bite is indulgent without being overpowering.
Whether drizzled over wraps, used as a dip, or incorporated into bowls, shawarma sauce enhances any dish with its zesty, garlicky punch. Homemade and customizable, it’s an essential addition to your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients List
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– ¼ cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons tahini (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon ground coriander
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for richness)
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and tahini. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and white vinegar. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all flavors.
Step 3: Stir in ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4: Optional: Drizzle in olive oil while whisking for a richer, smoother texture.
Step 5: Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired. Serve with shawarma, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or wraps.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
Serves 4–6
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 90
Carbs: 2g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 8g
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Do not freeze, as the yogurt may separate.
Stir well before each use if separation occurs.
Pairings/Suggestions
Perfect with chicken shawarma, beef shawarma, falafel, or roasted vegetables.
Use as a dip for pita bread, fries, or vegetable sticks.
Also great drizzled over grain bowls or salads for extra flavor.
Seasonal Relevance
Ideal year-round, especially for summer grilling and Middle Eastern-themed meals.
Great for lunch boxes, weeknight dinners, and entertaining guests.
Pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and warm flatbreads during colder months.
Health Benefits
Shawarma sauce is rich in protein from Greek yogurt and provides healthy fats from olive oil and tahini.
Garlic and lemon add antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immunity.
Using Greek yogurt over cream or mayonnaise-heavy sauces reduces calories while keeping a creamy texture.
When paired with lean meats or vegetables, it creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick and easy to make | Best when served fresh |
| Versatile for multiple dishes | Must be refrigerated |
| Creamy and flavorful | Contains dairy (not vegan) |
| Customizable spice levels | May separate if frozen |
Conclusion
This shawarma sauce recipe is creamy, garlicky, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect complement to grilled meats, wraps, and roasted vegetables. Easy to prepare and highly versatile, it brings authentic Middle Eastern taste to your kitchen without complicated steps or ingredients.
Whether drizzled on chicken shawarma, used as a dip, or incorporated into bowls, this sauce elevates every meal. Quick to make, fresh, and customizable, it is sure to become a staple for weeknight dinners, gatherings, and casual meals alike.
Shawarma Sauce Recipe
Course: Shawarma Recipes4–6
servings10
minutes90
kcalThis shawarma sauce is rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare.Made with Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon, and spices for a perfect tang.Versatile for wraps, roasted veggies, or grilled meats.
Ingredients
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– ¼ cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons tahini (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– ½ teaspoon ground coriander
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for richness)
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and tahini. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and white vinegar. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all flavors.
- Stir in ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Optional: Drizzle in olive oil while whisking for a richer, smoother texture.
- Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired. Serve with shawarma, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or wraps.
Recipe Video
Notes
- A creamy, garlicky shawarma sauce that elevates wraps, grilled meats, and vegetables.Quick to make with simple ingredients and a tangy, flavorful kick.Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prep.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this sauce vegan?
Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt with unsweetened plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise with vegan mayo.
Q2: How can I make it spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper, a pinch of chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Q3: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! Make the sauce up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld further.
