why make this recipe
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki are a tasty and healthy dish that everyone will love. Using ground turkey makes the meatballs leaner, and they are packed with fresh flavors. The creamy tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing touch that pairs perfectly with the meatballs. This dish is great for family dinners, meal prep, or a casual gathering with friends.
how to make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil for cooking (if pan-frying)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cucumber (grated and drained)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions:
Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Combine all the ingredients until well mixed. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to drain excess water), minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and set aside.
Serve: Place the cooked meatballs on a serving platter and drizzle with the tzatziki sauce. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
how to serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Serve the Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki alongside warm pita bread, a simple salad, or some roasted vegetables. They also make a great appetizer if you serve them with toothpicks.
how to store Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tzatziki sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge for the same time. Reheat the meatballs in a skillet or microwave before serving again.
tips to make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Keep it Moist: Make sure not to overcook the meatballs, as turkey can dry out easily. Check them with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and herbs to match your taste preferences.
Add Extra Flavor: You can mix in some feta cheese into the meatball mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
variation
If you want to switch things up, you can use ground chicken instead of ground turkey. You can also bake the meatballs in the oven instead of pan-frying them for a healthier option. Simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Cook them fresh when you are ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze Greek Turkey Meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze the meatballs before cooking them. When you’re ready to use them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then cook as usual.
3. What can I serve with the tzatziki sauce?
Tzatziki sauce is great with chips, vegetables, sandwiches, or as a dip for grilled meats.
