Irresistible Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki & Veggies

Recipe By:
Juliette
Updated:

Here’s a delightful recipe for a Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies that will whisk you away to sunny Mediterranean shores with every bite! The aroma of spiced meatballs sizzling in the pan will have your taste buds dancing, while the creamy tzatziki adds a refreshing twist that can make even the most mundane day feel like a celebration. refreshing salad option Imagine presenting this colorful bowl of goodness at your next dinner party—your guests will be raving about it long after the last meatball has disappeared.

Ah, memories of family gatherings come flooding back as I think of this dish. Growing up, my kitchen was often filled with laughter, lively discussions, and the tantalizing scents of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Greek Meatball Bowl is a breeze to prepare, making weeknight cooking stress-free.
  • The zesty flavors combined with fresh veggies create a flavor explosion in every bite.
  • Its vibrant presentation makes it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
  • Perfectly versatile, you can customize toppings based on your cravings or what’s in your fridge.

Ingredients for Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies

For more inspiration, check out this sushi bowl recipe recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Chicken or Turkey: Choose lean ground chicken or turkey for juicy meatballs without excessive fat.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to give texture to your meatballs.
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds freshness and color; use flat-leaf parsley for the best flavor.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic provides an aromatic kick; avoid dried garlic for maximum flavor.
  • Greek Yogurt: This tangy yogurt acts as the base for your tzatziki sauce; opt for full-fat for creaminess.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

  • Cucumber: Grated cucumber adds crunch and freshness; make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before mixing.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the tzatziki; bottled juice just won’t cut it!
  • Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; they are essential in enhancing all flavors within this dish.

For Serving:

  • Rice (White or Brown): Cooked rice serves as a hearty base; consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice for variety.
  • Fresh Veggies (Tomatoes, Bell Peppers): Chop colorful veggies to add crunch and nutrition; feel free to include whatever you love!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined into a cohesive mixture.

Step 2: Shape Your Meatballs

Using your hands (and maybe some gloves if you’re fancy), form small meatballs about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Try not to eat half of them raw—they’re so good!

Step 3: Bake Those Bad Boys

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. You want them crispy on the outside but succulent on the inside—so don’t overdo it!

Step 4: Whip Up That Tzatziki

While those meatballs are baking away like little flavor bombs, grab another bowl. Mix together Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste-test because who can resist that refreshing goodness?

Step 5: Cook Your Rice

Prepare your preferred rice according to package instructions while your meatballs are baking. If you’re feeling adventurous today (who wouldn’t?), consider adding some herbs or spices during cooking.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowl

Once everything is ready, it’s time for assembly! Start with a scoop of rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top with several golden meatballs alongside fresh chopped veggies like tomatoes and bell peppers. Drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce over everything—don’t hold back! For more inspiration, check out this meatballs and gravy recipe recipe.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional tzatziki if desired for that perfect finishing touch.

Now you’ve got yourself one delicious Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies that’ll impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you! Enjoy digging into this flavorful creation—the only challenge left is trying not to devour it too quickly!

You Must Know

  • This delightful Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies is a feast for the senses.
  • The colorful ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.
  • Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, it’s versatile and customizable to suit any palate.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your meatballs first. While they are baking, cook the rice and chop your fresh veggies. Finally, whip up the tzatziki sauce to serve it all fresh and cool.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey in the meatballs or use quinoa instead of rice for a twist. Add olives or feta cheese for extra flavor, and don’t shy away from experimenting with spices!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through to keep those meatballs juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To ensure perfect meatballs, don’t overmix the ground meat; this keeps them tender.
  • Always let your tzatziki chill for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
  • Lastly, serve everything separately so everyone can customize their bowl!

The first time I made this Greek Meatball Bowl, my friends devoured it in record time! They couldn’t believe how simple such deliciousness could be, and I felt like a culinary rockstar.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for a Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies?

To prepare a Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies, gather ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes, and herbs such as parsley. For the tzatziki sauce, use Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. The combination of these ingredients creates a deliciously balanced meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

How do I make the meatballs for my bowl?

To make meatballs for your Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, combine ground beef or turkey with breadcrumbs, minced garlic, diced onion, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Shape the mixture into small balls and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until cooked through. This method keeps them juicy while ensuring they are fully cooked and flavorful.

Can I customize the veggies in my Greek Meatball Bowl?

Absolutely! You can customize the veggies in your Greek Meatball Bowl to suit your taste. Consider adding bell peppers, red onion, or even roasted zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. The freshness of the vegetables complements the meatballs beautifully while providing crunch and color to your dish. Feel free to mix and match according to what you have on hand.

How do I store leftovers from my Greek Meatball Bowl?

To store leftovers from your Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, keep the components separate in airtight containers. Store the meatballs in one container, rice in another, and veggies along with tzatziki sauce in separate containers to maintain texture. Refrigerate them for up to three days. When ready to eat again, simply reheat the meatballs and rice while enjoying cold veggies and tzatziki.

Conclusion for Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies:

In summary, the Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies is a delightful dish that balances flavors and textures. By using ground beef or turkey alongside fresh vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce made from yogurt and herbs, you create a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy. creamy garlic chicken dish flavorful chicken bowl recipe This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Italian-inspired chicken cutlets Enjoy this nutritious bowl any day of the week!

Print
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Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Meatball Bowl featuring succulent meatballs, creamy tzatziki, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this dish is visually stunning and packed with deliciousness that will impress family and friends. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it’s a delightful way to bring people together over a shared love for good food.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat)
  • 1 medium cucumber, grated
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 cup fresh veggies (e.g., diced tomatoes and bell peppers)

Instructions

  1. 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix ground chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper until combined.
  2. 2. Shape the mixture into one-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. 3. Bake meatballs for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  4. 4. While meatballs bake, prepare tzatziki by mixing Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed dry), lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  5. 5. Cook rice according to package instructions.
  6. 6. Assemble bowls with rice as the base topped with meatballs, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 500g)
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 37g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: - Swap ground chicken for turkey or use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier option. - Add olives or feta cheese for extra flavor. - Store leftovers in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days.

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