Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki & Fresh Veggies

Looking for a meal that’s light, flavorful, and full of Mediterranean charm? The Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki & Fresh Veggies is the perfect choice for a sunny lunch on the patio or a cozy dinner that brings the vibrancy of a Greek taverna straight to your kitchen. This dish combines juicy, herb-packed meatballs with cooling, creamy tzatziki, all served over a bed of crisp vegetables and hearty grains. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is as satisfying as it is nourishing.

The inspiration for this bowl comes from the lively streets of Athens, where meat skewers and tzatziki-filled wraps are a beloved part of everyday life. Inspired by the classic Greek flavors but reimagined in a modern, bowl-style presentation, this dish brings a bit of the Mediterranean to your plate—fresh, fast, and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Meatball Bowl

This recipe is more than just delicious—it’s a balanced, nutritious meal that’s easy to customize and great for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll want to make it part of your weekly rotation:

• Protein-rich and satisfying thanks to the spiced ground meatballs

• Cool and refreshing with homemade tzatziki sauce

• Vibrant and fresh from the variety of colorful veggies

• Meal-prep friendly, perfect for packing into lunches

• Gluten-free when served with rice or gluten-free grains

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Greek Meatballs

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix)

• 1 small onion, finely grated

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or mint)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl Base and Toppings

• 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or couscous

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

• Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

Start by making the tzatziki so the flavors can meld while you prepare the rest of the dish.

1. In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out excess moisture), garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill.

2. Stir until well combined.

3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Make the Greek Meatballs

These meatballs are infused with traditional Greek spices and herbs, making them juicy and flavorful.

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs.

2. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

3. Shape into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter (you should get around 18-20).

4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

5. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10–12 minutes).

6. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

3. Assemble the Bowls

Now for the fun part—building your bowl with colorful, fresh ingredients.

1. Start with a scoop of rice, quinoa, or couscous as the base.

2. Add a few meatballs to each bowl.

3. Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.

4. Drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce.

5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and a wedge of lemon.

Tips for the Best Greek Meatball Bowl

• Squeeze the cucumber for the tzatziki well—excess water can make the sauce too thin.

• Let the meat mixture rest for a few minutes before shaping to help the flavors meld.

• Meal prep tip: Cook the meatballs and store them separately from the fresh veggies. Assemble just before eating to keep everything crisp and fresh.

• Make it vegetarian: Swap meatballs for falafel or grilled halloumi cheese.

• Try different bases: Brown rice, cauliflower rice, farro, or even leafy greens all make great foundations for this bowl.

Nutritional Benefits

This bowl doesn’t just taste amazing—it’s also a balanced, nutritious choice:

• Protein-packed from the meatballs and Greek yogurt

• Healthy fats from the olive oil and olives

• Fiber and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables

• Calcium from feta cheese and yogurt

• Naturally low in sugar and easily adaptable to gluten-free or low-carb diets

Make It Your Own: Customization Ideas

The beauty of this Greek Meatball Bowl is in its flexibility. Here are some ideas to tailor it to your tastes:

• Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie boost

• Include a handful of baby spinach or arugula for greens

• Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs

• Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mix

• Add a dollop of hummus alongside the tzatziki for even more Mediterranean flair

What to Serve with Greek Meatball Bowls

This bowl is satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to create a more elaborate spread, here are a few serving suggestions:

• Warm pita bread or pita chips on the side

• Stuffed grape leaves for a traditional mezze touch

• Roasted potatoes with lemon and oregano

• Greek salad for extra crunch and brightness

• A glass of crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc

Storing & Reheating

These bowls are ideal for meal prepping or storing leftovers:

• Meatballs: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet.

• Tzatziki: Keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days, though it’s best fresh.

• Veggies and grain base: Store separately to maintain texture. Reassemble the bowl when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs on a lined baking sheet for about 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through for even browning.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The meatballs are flavorful but not spicy, and the bowl presentation makes it easy to pick and choose ingredients your kids love.

Can I freeze the meatballs?

Definitely. Freeze cooked meatballs on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a covered skillet or microwave.

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