Description
Mediterranean flavors dance in these Greek turkey meatballs, blending lean protein with zesty herbs and creamy tzatziki. Succulent and lighter than traditional lamb versions, these meatballs bring Greek island charm directly to your plate, inviting you to savor each Mediterranean-inspired bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground turkey
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Binding and Cooking Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and warming the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Create a flavor-packed mixture by gently folding ground turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped parsley, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the seasoned meat mixture into uniform round meatballs, approximately one inch in diameter, arranging them carefully on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the meatballs in the preheated oven, allowing them to cook thoroughly and develop a golden-brown exterior, which typically takes 18-20 minutes.
- Verify doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the meatballs appear crisp and evenly colored on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatballs rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute, maintaining their tender texture.
- Serve alongside cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, which complements the warm, herb-infused meatballs with a refreshing contrast.
Notes
- Prevent dry meatballs by avoiding overmixing the ground turkey, which can make them tough and dense.
- Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Enhance flavor by adding crumbled feta cheese directly into the meatball mixture for an extra Greek-inspired taste profile.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe consumption without overcooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg