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.
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
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
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.
Suggested Pairing
Serve with a red wine like a Côtes du Rhône.
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