Mediterranean Meatballs with Herbed Tzatziki 🥙🧄🌿


Juicy, flavorful meatballs paired with cool, herbed tzatziki—a taste of the Mediterranean in under 35 minutes! Perfect for meal prep, parties, or a protein-packed dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with flavor – garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs elevate every bite.
Versatile protein – use lamb, beef, or a mix!
Meal-prep friendly – make ahead for easy lunches or dinners.
Crowd-pleasing – great for appetizers or main dishes.


Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or a mix)
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Tzatziki:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cucumber, grated + squeezed dry
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Serving Suggestions:

  • Warm pita bread or flatbread
  • Extra olive oil & parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Meatballs

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently (avoid overmixing).
  2. Roll into 1-inch meatballs (about 20–24 total).

2️⃣ Cook the Meatballs

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook meatballs for 4–5 minutes per side, until browned and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
  3. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

3️⃣ Make the Tzatziki

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Chill for 10+ minutes to let flavors meld.

4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

  • Arrange meatballs on a platter with tzatziki and warm pita.
  • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

📊 Nutrition & Time

Prep Time: 15 mins | 🔥 Cook Time: 20 mins | 🕒 Total Time: 35 mins
🍽 Servings: 4 | Calories: ~380/serving


💡 Pro Tips & Variations

For crispier meatballs, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Gluten-free? Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free panko.
Make ahead: Store cooked meatballs and tzatziki separately for up to 3 days. Reheat meatballs in oven or microwave.
Add heat with a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes in the meatball mix.


🌿 Serving Suggestions

  • As an appetizer: Skewer meatballs with toothpicks and serve with tzatziki dip.
  • Meal prep: Pair with roasted veggies and quinoa for a balanced lunch.
  • Pita sandwiches: Stuff meatballs and tzatziki into pitas with sliced tomatoes and red onion.

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