Description
Mediterranean magic shines through these Greek turkey meatballs with tzatziki sauce, blending lean protein and zesty herbs. Served with cool cucumber sauce, this dish brings Greek island flavors directly to your plate, inviting you to savor each delicious bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 lb (454 grams) ground turkey
- 1 egg, beaten
Herbs and Cheese:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill
Binding and Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil, for cooking
Tzatziki Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 small cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Craft the zesty tzatziki by blending tangy Greek yogurt with freshly grated cucumber, minced garlic, fragrant dill, bright lemon juice, and a pinch of seasoning. Chill the mixture to intensify the flavors while preparing the meatballs.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, gently fold ground turkey with crisp breadcrumbs, nutty Parmesan, chopped parsley, aromatic garlic, earthy oregano, subtle onion powder, and a whisked egg until ingredients are just harmoniously combined.
- Heat a skillet over medium flame with a delicate olive oil drizzle. Tenderly shape the turkey mixture into uniform spheres, approximately 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Carefully place meatballs into the heated skillet, allowing them to sizzle and transform. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, rotating until a golden-brown exterior develops and interior reaches complete doneness.
- Transfer the succulent meatballs onto an elegant serving platter, accompanied by a generous bowl of chilled tzatziki for dipping. Complement the dish with warm pita bread or a crisp, refreshing salad for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Notes
- Drain grated cucumber thoroughly to prevent watery tzatziki, pressing out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth for a thick, creamy sauce.
- Choose lean ground turkey with 93% lean or higher to keep meatballs moist without excess grease, ensuring a healthier protein option.
- Chill meatball mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming helps them hold shape better and prevents falling apart during cooking, creating firmer texture.
- Experiment with alternative protein options like ground chicken or plant-based alternatives for dietary restrictions, maintaining similar seasoning profile for consistent flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg