Why Make This Recipe
Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, using ground turkey for a lean source of protein. The tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing touch with its creamy yogurt and cucumber blend. It’s perfect for family meals, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week.
How to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the meatballs on the sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt.
- Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce on the side.
How to Serve Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
Serve these meatballs warm, paired with tzatziki sauce for dipping. They make a great main dish alongside a fresh salad, or they can be enjoyed in a pita with sliced vegetables. You can also serve them with rice or roasted vegetables to complete your meal.
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 about 2-3 days. Reheat the meatballs in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
- Make sure the ground turkey is well-mixed with the other ingredients to keep the meatballs moist.
- Do not skip draining the grated cucumber to avoid a watery tzatziki.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your taste, adding more or less according to your preference.
Variation
For a twist on the recipe, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or even beef. You can also add spices like cumin or paprika for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time. Form them and freeze before baking. Just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt for the tzatziki?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt, but the texture may be thinner.
3. Are Greek Turkey Meatballs gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats instead of regular breadcrumbs.