Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, fresh parsley, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shape the Meatballs: Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should be able to make around 18-20 meatballs, depending on the size.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meatballs in batches (do not overcrowd the pan). Cook the meatballs for 6-8 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. You can also check the internal temperature to ensure the meatballs have reached 165°F (74°C).
2. Drain and Set Aside: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

1. Grate the Cucumber: Grate the cucumber using a box grater or finely chop it. If you want a smoother texture, you can also blend it. Place the grated cucumber in a paper towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess moisture. This helps keep your tzatziki sauce from becoming too watery.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve

• Serve the Greek turkey meatballs with a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce on top or on the side for dipping. You can also serve the meatballs with a side of fresh veggies, a Greek salad, or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• For a more traditional twist, serve the meatballs inside warm pita bread with additional tzatziki and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

1. Healthy and Lean: Using turkey instead of higher-fat meats makes these meatballs a lighter, healthier option while still offering plenty of flavor. Ground turkey is a great source of lean protein, and the addition of fresh herbs and spices provides natural flavor without added calories.
2. Deliciously Versatile: These meatballs can be served in a variety of ways, whether as a main dish with a side of veggies, as a topping for a salad, or in a wrap or pita. They can also be made ahead of time, refrigerated, and even frozen for a convenient meal later.
3. For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
4. Full of Mediterranean Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs like parsley and oregano, along with the spices of cumin and cinnamon, adds a delightful Mediterranean flair to the turkey meatballs. And the homemade tzatziki sauce, made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and lemon, is the perfect cool and tangy accompaniment.
5. Kid-Friendly: With their mild flavor and tender texture, these Greek turkey meatballs are likely to be a hit with kids as well. The tzatziki sauce adds a fun and fresh element that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Turkey Meatballs:

• Moisture: If you find that your turkey meatballs are too dry, you can add a little more olive oil or a tablespoon of milk to the mixture to help keep them moist.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs give the meatballs a great burst of flavor. If you don’t have fresh parsley or oregano, feel free to use dried, but fresh will always taste best.
• Cooking Methods: If you prefer, you can bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce are the perfect blend of savory, flavorful, and healthy. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea, a new appetizer for a gathering, or just something to satisfy your Mediterranean cravings, this recipe delivers every time. The combination of tender turkey meatballs with the creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce is irresistible and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy!