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The Mediterranean Gourmet

Mediterranean Meatballs with Tzatziki

Updated: Jan 31

These delicious Mediterranean Meatballs are served with an incredibly tasty tzatziki sauce and makes for a delicious and unexpected weeknight dinner. Juicy meatballs, bursting with flavor, are paired with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce. It's a delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine in every bite.


Mediterranean Meatballs with Tzatziki

What is great about Mediterranean Meatballs with Tzatziki?


  • The meatballs are seasoned to perfection, delivering a burst of savory and satisfying flavors in every bite.

  • The homemade tzatziki sauce brings a refreshing and tangy element to the dish, complementing the meatballs with its creamy texture and delightful taste.

  • The combination of meatballs and tzatziki creates a well-balanced meal, offering both protein and a light, refreshing sauce.

  • This dish embodies the heart-healthy aspects of Mediterranean cuisine, showcasing the use of fresh ingredients and simple, flavorful preparations.

  • Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Mediterranean Meatballs with Tzatziki are easy to prepare and enjoy, making them a versatile option for any occasion.


Tips


  • Experiment with a blend of ground meats like beef, lamb, and pork to achieve a more complex flavor profile.

  • Don't be shy with your seasonings. Mediterranean cuisine often features bold flavors, so be generous with herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

  • For tender meatballs, consider adding breadcrumbs soaked in milk or a grated onion. This helps to retain moisture and creates a softer texture.

  • When combining your meat mixture, avoid overmixing. This can make your meatballs tough. Gently mix until just combined.

 
Mediterranean Meatballs with Tzatziki

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Prep time: 15 minutes

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Cook time: 25 minutes

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Yield: 4 Servings



Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs. of ground beef or lamb

  • 1 onion, grated

  • 6 garlic of cloves, minced

  • 2 tsp cumin

  • 2 tsp oregano, dried

  • 1 tsp allspice

  • ½ cup of flat-leaf parsley, minced

  • 2 eggs

  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko is the best option)

  • Salt and pepper to taste


Tzatziki Sauce (make 1 hour, or 1 day ahead of time)

  • 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt

  • 1 small cucumber, grated

  • 1 tbsp dried dill

  • 2 tsp za'atar (optional)*

  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp of lemon juice

  • Salt and pepper to taste

* Za'atar is a spice blend of dried herbs like oregano, marjoram, thyme, and sumac.


Directions:


1. Preheat the oven to 400° F.


2. Mix the meat, onion, garlic, pepper, cumin, oregano, allspice, eggs, breadcrumbs, and parsley until thoroughly incorporated; add salt and pepper to taste. Shape the meatballs with your hands into an excellent round shape.


3. Transfer the meatballs to a lightly oiled baking sheet.


4. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the meatballs are nicely golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160° F.


5. Meanwhile, make the tzatziki sauce by mixing all the ingredients in a small bowl. Cover and place in the fridge for a 1 hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld.


You can serve these meatballs in any way you like. You can make an excellent gyro or with a side salad. Serve with a red wine like a Côtes du Rhône.

 
nutritional info

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Suggested Pairing


Serve with a red wine like a Côtes du Rhône.









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