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Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Meatball Bowl with Rice and Tzatziki

Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Meatball Bowl with Rice and Tzatziki

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This Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Meatball Bowl with Rice and Tzatziki is a vibrant, satisfying meal bursting with bold herbs, warm spices, and fresh, crisp vegetables. Featuring tender lamb meatballs paired with cool tzatziki and served over fluffy white rice, this dish brings together traditional Greek flavors in a beautifully balanced and easy-to-make bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Greek meatball bowl is a complete, well-rounded meal with high protein, fresh produce, and bright Mediterranean flavors. The lamb meatballs are seasoned with classic herbs and spices, while the cool, creamy tzatziki sauce provides a refreshing contrast. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, easy to prep in advance, and ideal for those who love the combination of savory meats and crisp, fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground lamb

  • Breadcrumbs

  • Finely chopped onion

  • Garlic, minced

  • Dried oregano

  • Ground cumin

  • Ground cinnamon

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Olive oil (for frying)

  • Cooked white rice

  • Cherry tomatoes, halved

  • Cucumber, thinly sliced

  • Red onion, thinly sliced

  • Feta cheese, crumbled

  • Tzatziki sauce

  • Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)

  • Grated cucumber (for tzatziki)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Blend until fully combined.

  2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small 1-inch meatballs.

  3. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

  4. Assemble the Bowls: Begin each bowl with a base of cooked white rice. Top with lamb meatballs. Arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion rings around the meatballs.

  5. Add Toppings: Spoon tzatziki sauce generously over the meatballs. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with chopped dill.

  6. Serve: Serve immediately, with an optional drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes

  • Total Time: 35 minutes

  • Calories: Approximately 540 kcal per serving

Variations

  • Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef, chicken, or turkey for the lamb if preferred.

  • Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.

  • Grain Bowl: Use quinoa, bulgur, or farro in place of white rice for added texture and nutrition.

  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mix for some heat.

  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based ground meat and dairy-free tzatziki and feta alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

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

  • Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and rice in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add tzatziki and vegetables fresh before serving.

  • Freezing: The cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, the meatballs can be cooked and stored in the fridge or freezer in advance. Assemble the bowls when ready to serve.

Is lamb necessary for this recipe?

Lamb provides authentic flavor, but beef, chicken, or turkey can be used as suitable alternatives.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well combined and don’t skip the breadcrumbs, which help bind the ingredients.

What is tzatziki made of?

Tzatziki typically includes Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like dill or mint.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki is a convenient option, though homemade offers fresher flavor.

What other vegetables can I add?

Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, or shredded lettuce are excellent additions to this bowl.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store ingredients separately and assemble just before serving to preserve texture.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free yogurt for tzatziki and omit or replace feta with a dairy-free alternative.

Can I serve this bowl cold?

Yes, it can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for various occasions.

What herbs can I substitute for dill?

Mint or parsley also pair well with Mediterranean flavors and can be used in place of dill.

Conclusion

Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Meatball Bowl with Rice and Tzatziki is a flavorful, colorful, and wholesome dish that celebrates the best of Mediterranean cuisine. With seasoned lamb meatballs, fresh veggies, creamy tzatziki, and fluffy rice, it delivers a satisfying and well-balanced meal. Whether you’re planning a weekday lunch, a casual dinner, or a meal prep session, this recipe brings authentic taste and hearty nutrition to the table.

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Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Meatball Bowl with Rice and Tzatziki

Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Meatball Bowl with Rice and Tzatziki

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4-servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean / Greek
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Description

This Mediterranean-Inspired Greek Meatball Bowl with Rice and Tzatziki is a vibrant and nourishing meal featuring spiced lamb meatballs, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. Bursting with classic Greek flavors and textures, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Bowl:

  • 2 cups cooked white rice

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 1/4 cup tzatziki sauce

  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)

  • 1/4 cup grated cucumber (for tzatziki)

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, mix ground lamb with breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  • Form into 1-inch meatballs.

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches for 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Set aside.

  • In serving bowls, layer with white rice.

  • Top with meatballs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.

  • Spoon tzatziki over meatballs and sprinkle with feta and fresh dill.

  • Serve immediately with optional olive oil drizzle.

Notes

  • Substitute lamb with ground beef or turkey if preferred.

  • Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

  • Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

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