Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki: A Healthy and Delicious Summer Dinner Option

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients, and Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki are a perfect example of this culinary tradition. This dish combines tender and juicy meatballs made with ground beef, fragrant garlic, aromatic herbs, and a medley of spices. Baked to perfection, these meatballs are then served alongside a tangy and refreshing tzatziki sauce and a crisp Greek salad, making it an ideal choice for a healthy summer dinner.

Why Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki are Perfect for Healthy Summer?

1. Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef ensures that the meatballs are rich in protein while minimizing the fat content. It’s a versatile and affordable protein source that keeps you satiated.
2. Garlic: Garlic not only enhances the flavor profile but also offers various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing cholesterol levels.
3. Herbs and Spices: Incorporating herbs like parsley, oregano, and mint into the meatball mixture not only adds a burst of freshness but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.
4. Tzatziki Sauce: Made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, tzatziki sauce is a healthier alternative to creamy dressings. Greek yogurt is high in protein and probiotics, promoting a healthy digestive system.
5. Greek Salad: Accompanying the meatballs with a Greek salad comprising of fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette increases the nutrient content of the meal.

How to Make Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki?

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried mint
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, dried mint, salt, and black pepper.
• Use your hands to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together. Ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Shape the Meatballs

• Take a small portion of the meatball mixture, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and roll it between your palms to form a round meatball shape.
• Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, placing the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave a small gap between each meatball to allow for even cooking.

Bake the Meatballs

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the meatballs in the oven.
• Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on the meatballs to prevent overcooking.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

• While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber, minced garlic, freshly chopped dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
• Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Serve and Enjoy

• Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
• Drizzle the prepared tzatziki sauce over the meatballs or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
• Serve the Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki alongside a Greek salad composed of fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and a simple vinaigrette dressing.
• Garnish with additional herbs, such as parsley or mint, if desired.
• Enjoy this flavorful and healthy summer dinner with family and friends!

By following these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to create Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki that are both delicious and visually appealing. Don’t forget to customize the Greek salad with your favorite vegetables and toppings to add extra freshness and crunch to the meal. Bon appétit!

Helpful Tip: To add an extra burst

of flavor to your Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the meatballs before serving. This will enhance the brightness of the dish and complement the flavors of the tzatziki sauce and Greek salad.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

While ground beef is traditional in Greek meatballs, you can experiment with other ground meats such as turkey, chicken, or lamb for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the meat you choose has a lean content to keep the dish healthier.

Can I grill the meatballs instead of baking them?

Yes, grilling the meatballs is another great option. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the meatballs for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are cooked through and nicely charred.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making the tzatziki sauce in advance allows the flavors to meld together even more. Prepare the sauce and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 days before serving.

Freezing

If you want to make a larger batch of Greek meatballs for future use, freezing them is a convenient option. Follow these steps to freeze your meatballs:

1. Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely.
2. Place the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze until the meatballs are solid.
4. Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
5. Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Storage

Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and freshness of your Greek meatballs. Here are some guidelines:

1. Cooked Meatballs: Store any leftover cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: Refrigerate any unused tzatziki sauce in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days. Stir well before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here is a general estimate of the nutritional information for Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Fat: Around 15-20 grams
• Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: Around 15-20 grams
• Fiber: Approximately 1-3 grams
• Sodium: Varies depending on the amount of salt added

Please note that these values may vary based on the specific ingredients used and the portion sizes. It’s always a good idea to calculate the nutritional information based on the exact brands and quantities you use if you require precise data.

Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki offer a delicious and nutritious option for a healthy summer dinner. With their flavorful meatballs, refreshing tzatziki sauce, and crisp Greek salad, this dish is a perfect balance of taste and health. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family meal, Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.