Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine rice)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 16-18 balls).
Cook the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them until all sides are browned and the meatballs are cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Bowls:
Start by adding a serving of cooked rice to each bowl.
Arrange the cooked meatballs, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese on top of the rice.
Top with Tzatziki Sauce:
Spoon a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over the meatballs and veggies. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
Serve:
Serve the Greek meatball bowls warm with extra tzatziki on the side.
This Greek meatball bowl is packed with fresh flavors, creamy tzatziki, and satisfying rice, making it a delicious and healthy meal option!