Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a flavorful and healthy dish that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. This combination of tender turkey meatballs and refreshing tzatziki sauce makes for a satisfying meal that is also light.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to try this recipe. First, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs, thanks to the lean ground turkey. Second, the tzatziki sauce provides a cool contrast that enhances the flavor of the meatballs. Lastly, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week.
How to make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced (for tzatziki)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for tzatziki)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs bake, prepare the tzatziki by mixing together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Serve the meatballs hot with the tzatziki sauce on the side.
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
A flavorful and healthy dish featuring lean turkey meatballs paired with refreshing tzatziki sauce, perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced (for tzatziki)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for tzatziki)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs bake, prepare the tzatziki by mixing together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Serve the meatballs hot with the tzatziki sauce on the side.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the meatball mixture chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. Drain grated cucumber well to prevent tzatziki from becoming watery.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Lean Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
How to serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
These meatballs can be served as a main dish with tzatziki on the side. You can pair them with a fresh Greek salad, warm pita bread, or even rice for a complete meal. They also make a great appetizer for gatherings or parties.
How to store Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
To store leftover meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 3-4 days. Tzatziki can also be stored in a separate airtight container and will keep well for about 3 days.
Tips to make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
- For extra flavor, let the meatball mixture chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
- Make sure to drain the grated cucumber well to prevent the tzatziki from becoming watery.
- If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
Variations
You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if desired. For a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or lentils blended with spices to replace the meat. You can also go with a completely different flavor to experiment, like with these Honey Garlic Meatballs.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze Greek Turkey Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months.
2. Is tzatziki served warm or cold?
Tzatziki is typically served cold. It complements the warm meatballs perfectly.
3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake, making this recipe great for meal prep.
Conclusion
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delightful dish that combines vibrant Mediterranean flavors with healthy ingredients. Whether you serve them for dinner or at a gathering, these meatballs are sure to please everyone. Enjoy the process of making them and indulge in a taste of Greece!
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