Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies

Name: Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground lamb or beef; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying); 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated and drained; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

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A vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal, this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and freshness, ideal for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together a variety of flavors and textures in one bowl. The Greek meatballs are perfectly spiced, the tzatziki sauce adds a cool creaminess, and the fresh veggies provide a delightful crunch. It’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Greek Meatballs:

1 lb ground lamb or beef

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 teaspoon cumin

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 cucumber, grated and drained

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Bowl:

2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, sliced

1/2 cup Kalamata olives

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Directions

Make the Greek Meatballs:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated onion, garlic, egg, parsley, dill, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Assemble the Bowls:

Divide the cooked rice evenly between serving bowls.

Arrange the meatballs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, and red onion on top of the rice.

Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 bowls

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Grain Alternative: Substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Additional Veggies: Add shredded carrots, roasted red peppers, or avocado slices for extra nutrients.

Vegan Option: Replace meatballs with falafel and use a plant-based yogurt for the tzatziki.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm the meatballs and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, then assemble the bowls fresh before serving. Tzatziki should always be served cold.

Related Recipes:

Greek Chicken Bowl

FAQs

How can I ensure my meatballs stay moist?

Mixing in grated onion and egg helps keep the meatballs juicy. Avoid overcooking them to retain their tenderness.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and cook the meatballs up to 2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat when assembling the bowls.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be substituted at a 1:3 ratio (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried dill for 1 tablespoon fresh dill).

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free grain like quinoa.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the meatballs and rice separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Avoid freezing the fresh veggies and tzatziki.

Conclusion

This Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies is a delicious and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with Mediterranean flavors. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or an impressive meal for guests. Customize it to suit your preferences, and enjoy the delightful balance of savory meatballs, creamy tzatziki, and fresh veggies.

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