Savory Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

Imagine biting into a warm, savory Greek Turkey Meatball, bursting with flavors of fresh herbs and spices. The tzatziki sauce drizzled on top adds a refreshing coolness that dances on your taste buds, making it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds). This dish isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you straight to a sun-soaked Greek taverna, even if you’re just in your kitchen.

The first time I made these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki was during a family gathering where we were battling the scorching summer heat. My aunt insisted on grilling outside while the rest of us debated whether air conditioning counts as an Olympic sport. Little did we know that these meatballs would become the star of the show, with everyone asking for the secret recipe—so here I am, sharing it with you!

Ingredients for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps these meatballs light yet flavorful, perfect for health-conscious eaters.

• Fresh Parsley: Use finely chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and a pop of color in every bite.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings an aromatic punch that elevates the flavor profile.

• Onion: A grated onion adds moisture and sweetness to the meatballs, preventing them from drying out.

• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs as they bind the mixture together while adding texture.

• Eggs: Eggs act as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape during cooking.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in your dish.

For the Tzatziki:

• Cucumber: Grated cucumber provides hydration and crunch; squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.

• Greek Yogurt: Use thick Greek yogurt for creaminess without excess liquid; it’ll make your tzatziki rich and tangy.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the sauce with zesty notes.

• Dill or Mint: Fresh herbs add an aromatic quality that complements the yogurt beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.



How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you have an aversion to cleaning dishes, this will be your best friend.

Step 2: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped parsley, minced garlic cloves, grated onion, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands—it’s messy but oh-so-satisfying! Mix until everything is well incorporated but don’t overdo it; nobody wants tough meatballs.

Step 3: Shape Your Meatballs

Using about two tablespoons of mixture per meatball, roll them into balls and place them onto your prepared baking sheet. Aim for uniform size; it helps them cook evenly. You can also pretend you’re rolling dough at an Italian restaurant if you need extra motivation.

Step 4: Bake

Bake those beauties in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. A little crispy edge never hurt anyone!

Step 5: Make the Tzatziki

While your meatballs bake away like little flavor bombs in the oven, prepare your tzatziki. In a bowl, mix grated cucumber (make sure it’s squeezed dry), Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill or mint (whichever herb you’ve chosen), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and then refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Once those turkey meatballs are ready to rock your world (or at least take out some hunger pangs), transfer them onto plates alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki. Pair them with pita bread if you’re feeling fancy—because why not?

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare around here), these meatballs make excellent sandwiches or salad toppings!

You Must Know

• This amazing Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki dish offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
• You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
• Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by mixing your turkey meatball ingredients thoroughly. While they chill, whip up your tzatziki sauce. Sear the meatballs in a hot pan before finishing them in the oven. This method locks in those delicious juices and flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize these Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki by adding herbs like dill or parsley, or even swap ground turkey for chicken or beef. Want a little kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven to maintain their texture—just pop them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Always use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; dried ones just won’t cut it.
• Don’t skip chilling the meat mixture; this helps hold shape during cooking.
• Lastly, adjust salt levels based on your taste preference to ensure perfect seasoning every time.

Cooking these Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki reminds me of summer dinners on my patio, where laughter mingles with the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the air.

FAQs

What are Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki?

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delicious and healthy dish that combines ground turkey seasoned with traditional Greek spices. These meatballs are served alongside a refreshing tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs. This dish is perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer at gatherings. The flavor profile offers a delightful mix of savory and tangy notes that highlight the Mediterranean cuisine.

How do I make the tzatziki sauce for Greek Turkey Meatballs?

To create the perfect tzatziki sauce, start by grating fresh cucumber and squeezing out excess moisture. Combine this with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and chopped fresh dill or mint. Mix until smooth and creamy. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This cooling sauce complements the warm meatballs beautifully and enhances their flavor.

Can I use chicken instead of turkey for Greek Meatballs?

Yes, you can certainly substitute ground chicken for turkey in this recipe. Ground chicken has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it an excellent alternative. However, keep in mind that chicken may have a slightly different taste than turkey. Adjust your seasonings accordingly to maintain the authentic Greek flavor profile in your meatballs.

How should I store leftover Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki?

Store any leftover Greek Turkey Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooked meatballs without the tzatziki sauce. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The tzatziki can be stored separately in another container and added just before serving.

Conclusion for Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki is a flavorful dish that brings together lean protein and refreshing flavors. The combination of well-seasoned meatballs paired with homemade tzatziki creates a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Whether you serve these meatballs as part of a main course or as appetizers at your next gathering, they will impress your guests and family alike. Enjoy this healthy twist on classic Greek cuisine!

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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki



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Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki, a delightful dish combining lean turkey meatballs seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, served alongside creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an impressive appetizer at gatherings, each bite transports you to a sun-soaked Greek taverna, making it hard to resist going back for more.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately four servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Greek

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, grated
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, parsley, garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined. Avoid overmixing.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs (about two tablespoons each) and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. While meatballs bake, combine cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, dill or mint in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper; refrigerate until serving.
6. Serve meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 meatballs (approx. 150g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added flavor, substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

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