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A Culinary Journey to the Mediterranean: Mastering Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki

A Culinary Journey to the Mediterranean: Mastering Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki
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These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki bring the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your plate. Tender and juicy meatballs made with lean turkey, herbs, and spices are paired with a creamy, garlicky yogurt sauce for the perfect balance of flavor and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Greek Turkey Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey

  • ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)

  • 1 large egg

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • Olive oil, for cooking (if pan-frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)

  • ½ cucumber, grated and drained

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined — don’t overwork the mixture.
Form into small meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter (makes 16–20 meatballs).

2. Cook the Meatballs

Oven-Baked Option:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

Pan-Fried Option:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches for 4–5 minutes per side, until browned and fully cooked.

Air Fryer Option:
Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Arrange meatballs in a single layer and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.

3. Make the Tzatziki Sauce

Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess water using a cheesecloth or paper towel.
In a bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve meatballs warm with a generous spoonful of tzatziki.
Pair with pita bread, rice, roasted vegetables, or a Greek salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Moist Meatballs: Avoid over-mixing the turkey mixture — it can make the meatballs dense.

  • Make Ahead: Both the meatballs and tzatziki can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

  • Add Extra Flavor: Mix a bit of feta cheese or lemon zest into the meatball mixture for a tasty twist.

Nutrition

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