Description
These savory mini meatballs are packed with Mediterranean flavors of oregano, mint, and garlic, perfectly paired with a cool and creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Ideal as an appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced (for tzatziki)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, mint, oregano, salt, pepper, and feta (if using). Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F).
- Meanwhile, make tzatziki: In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, and 1 minced garlic clove. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve meatballs warm with tzatziki sauce for dipping. Garnish with extra mint or dill if desired.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. For a lighter version, use ground chicken or turkey. Tzatziki can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Method: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Greek