Mediterranean Meatballs with Herbed Tzatziki
Juicy meatballs paired with a refreshing, creamy tzatziki sauce—this Mediterranean dish is a flavor-packed delight!
When it comes to Mediterranean comfort food, few things hit the spot quite like Mediterranean Meatballs with a creamy and refreshing Herbed Tzatziki. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful dish to serve at your next dinner party, these savory meatballs paired with tangy tzatziki will transport you straight to the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Herb-packed meatballs: Full of fresh herbs and warm spices like cumin and oregano.
- Creamy tzatziki: A cool, refreshing dip made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and garlic.
- Quick & Easy: Prep and cook in under 40 minutes for a weeknight win!
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or a mix)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Warm pita bread or flatbread
- Extra olive oil and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overwork the mixture.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C). Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Tzatziki
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, and chill in the fridge while you finish cooking the meatballs.
4️⃣ Assemble and Serve
Serve the meatballs with the chilled tzatziki on the side. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair with warm pita bread or flatbread for the perfect Mediterranean meal!
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve these flavorful meatballs alongside a fresh Greek salad, roasted veggies, or even some crispy fries. Don’t forget to drizzle a little more tzatziki over your meatballs for that extra creamy touch! 🌿
Quick Tips for Success
- Moisture in the Meatballs: Be sure to avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. Overmixing can lead to dense meatballs!
- Tzatziki Texture: If you like your tzatziki on the thicker side, feel free to strain the cucumber after grating to remove excess water.
- Add More Flavor: Experiment with adding a bit of lemon zest or a dash of red pepper flakes to your tzatziki for an extra zing!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~380 kcal per serving
Enjoy This Mediterranean Delight
These Mediterranean Meatballs with Herbed Tzatziki are a must-try if you love vibrant, aromatic dishes with bold flavors. The herbed meatballs are juicy and satisfying, and the tzatziki offers a cool, tangy contrast that makes each bite even better. Pair it with your favorite flatbread, and you have a complete Mediterranean feast!
Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below!
Happy cooking! 🥙✨
