Greek Turkey Meatballs With Tzatziki Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner idea, Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki might be just what you need. These meatballs are easy to make, packed with protein, and can be paired with a light sauce that adds freshness. You’ll appreciate how versatile this dish is, as it works well in wraps or salads too. But before you gather your ingredients, let’s explore the history behind this flavorful recipe and how it came to be a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you’re looking for a delicious and quick meal, these Greek turkey meatballs are a perfect choice. They’re ready in just 30-40 minutes and use simple ingredients you probably already have. With lean ground turkey, you get a high-protein, low-fat dish that’s packed with flavor from fresh herbs and feta cheese. Each serving offers over 40 grams of protein, especially when paired with high-protein grains like orzo. These meatballs are versatile; you can customize them to fit your dietary needs and serve them with various sides, like pita bread or salads. Plus, the homemade tzatziki sauce adds a revitalizing touch, making this meal not only healthy but also enjoyable for everyone! Ground turkey is a great alternative to higher-fat meats, providing a delicious and healthy option for your meals.

History

Greek turkey meatballs have a rich history that connects them to ancient culinary traditions. The concept of meatballs dates back to ancient Roman times, with cookbooks like Apicius showcasing similar recipes.

During the medieval period, Arabic cookbooks featured seasoned lamb rolled into balls, highlighting a blend of flavors. The Turkish influence is significant, as the word “köfte” shaped names across cultures, including the Greek “keftédes.” In Greece, you often find variations like yuvarlákia, which are meatballs in sauce, or soutzoukakia, flavored with cumin. These dishes reflect both Greek and Turkish heritage, particularly from the region of Smyrna.

The use of herbs like parsley and mint adds a unique twist, showcasing the evolution of this beloved dish over time. Additionally, the term “meatball” encompasses a wide range of recipes that reflects diverse cultural influences across cuisines.

Recipe

1 pound ground turkey
2 cloves minced garlic
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for tzatziki)
1/2 cup grated cucumber (excess water squeezed out)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 clove minced garlic
1 tablespoon fresh or dried dill (for tzatziki)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, minced garlic, chopped red onion, breadcrumbs, egg, fresh dill, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Using a cookie or ice cream scoop, portion the mixture into equal-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re browned and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, garlic powder or minced garlic, and dill in a small bowl. Mix until well combined and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve the meatballs warm with the tzatziki sauce on the side, along with your choice of sides or in flatbread for gyros.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, make sure to avoid overworking the meat mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs.

Using a cookie scoop helps maintain uniform sizes, ensuring even cooking.

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients like gluten-free breadcrumbs or fresh herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.

To save time, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them uncooked for a quick meal option later on.

Enjoy your cooking!

Greek turkey meatballs are a flavorful alternative to traditional options, and they can be paired with a dairy-free tzatziki sauce for added taste.

Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your cooking adventure with Greek turkey meatballs, it’s important to reflect on how this dish can fit into your meal planning and entertaining.

These meatballs are incredibly versatile, serving as appetizers, main courses, or even snacks. You can pair them with tzatziki sauce for a creamy contrast or include them in salads, wraps, and gyros. Additionally, their cultural significance fosters a sense of coziness and togetherness at gatherings, making them perfect for sharing.

They also shine on a meze platter alongside pita bread and feta salad. If you’re looking to save time, consider preparing a batch for meal prep, as they freeze well for later use.

With fresh herbs, tangy feta, and zesty lemon, these meatballs provide a delicious and healthy option that brings a taste of Greece to your table.

FAQ

Ever wondered how to make the perfect Greek turkey meatballs? Start by mixing ground turkey with other ingredients lightly.

Use a cookie scoop to form uniform meatballs, about 1 inch in size, and avoid over-mixing. For cooking, you can bake them at 400 degrees F or use a stovetop with avocado oil.

Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F, and let them rest afterward for added tenderness. Greek Turkey Meatballs are ideal for family dinners or meal prep, making them a convenient option for busy nights.

For the tzatziki, grate cucumber, squeeze out excess water, and mix it with yogurt, lemon juice, dill, and garlic. Refrigerate it to enhance flavors.

Serve your meatballs with brown rice, in gyros, or as an appetizer. Enjoy your delicious meal!