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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 20 meatballs 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking, Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Description

These Greek Turkey Meatballs are tender, flavorful, and infused with Mediterranean herbs and spices. Paired with a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, they’re perfect as an appetizer, in a pita, or over a fresh Greek salad.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Meatballs:
    • 1 pound ground turkey
    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
    • 1 large egg
    • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • Zest of 1 lemon
  • For the Tzatziki Sauce:
    • 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or low-fat)
    • 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For Serving (Optional):
    • Pita bread or naan
    • Greek salad
    • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
    • In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, and lemon juice.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the meatballs.
  2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, red onion, garlic, parsley, dill (if using), oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
    • Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture.
  3. Shape the Meatballs:
    • Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion the mixture, then roll into 1 ½-inch balls. You should have about 20 meatballs.
  4. Cook the Meatballs:
    • Pan-Seared Method: Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), about 10–12 minutes.
    • Baked Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce. Enjoy them in pita bread, over a salad, or as a standalone appetizer.

Notes

  • Substitute ground chicken or beef if preferred.
  • Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the meatballs for a spicy kick.
  • These meatballs freeze well—store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://recipe.ukfinda.com/greek-turkey-meatballs-with-tzatziki-sauce/