Why Make This Recipe
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, and they offer a healthier alternative by using ground turkey instead of beef or pork. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with fresh herbs and spices. The tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing layer, making it perfect for a light dinner or a party appetizer. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and bake, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without much fuss.
How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a bowl.
- Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.
How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Serve the Greek Turkey Meatballs warm on a platter with a bowl of tzatziki on the side. You can pair them with pita bread, a fresh salad, or even rice to make a complete meal. These meatballs can also be used as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
How to Store Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
If you have leftovers, store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki sauce separate to maintain its freshness. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in the freezer.
Tips to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
- For extra flavor, you can add chopped spinach or feta cheese to the meatball mixture.
- Make sure to drain the grated cucumber well; this prevents the tzatziki from becoming watery.
- If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a kick.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by using ground chicken instead of turkey. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
FAQs
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is a healthy option for cooking meatballs. It allows them to cook evenly without excess oil.
Can I make the tzatziki sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The tzatziki sauce can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I pair with Greek Turkey Meatballs for a complete meal?
You can enjoy these meatballs with a Greek salad, rice or couscous, or even in a pita wrap with fresh veggies.
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground turkey Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs Can use regular or whole wheat breadcrumbs.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For added flavor and richness.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Fresh herbs enhance the dish's flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 number egg Binding agent for the meat mixture.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Classic herb for Greek flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt Full-fat or low-fat yogurt can be used.
- 1/2 number cucumber, grated and drained Draining prevents tzatziki from becoming watery.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Adds freshness to the sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, minced For additional flavor.
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
Cooking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, and salt in a bowl.
Serving
- Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.
