Description
These bite-sized meatballs are packed with classic Greek flavors like oregano, mint, and feta cheese, then served with a cool and creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Perfect for appetizers or a light meal.
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) ground lamb or beef
- 1/2 cup (60g) crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup (40g) breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
- For the Tzatziki: 1 cup (200g) Greek yogurt, 1/2 cucumber (seeded and grated), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried), salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- To make the tzatziki: combine all tzatziki ingredients in a bowl. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, feta, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, oregano, mint, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined — do not overmix.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes total.
- Transfer cooked meatballs to a paper-towel-lined plate. Serve warm with chilled tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. For a lighter version, bake the meatballs at 190°C (375°F) for 15-18 minutes instead of frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Greek