If you love vibrant Mediterranean flavors packed into a satisfying, wholesome meal, this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe is destined to become one of your all-time favorites. Tender, herb-infused meatballs paired with creamy, tangy tzatziki, fluffy rice, and the crunch of fresh vegetables create a harmony of textures and tastes that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s an easy-to-make dish that makes weeknight dinners feel special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that you likely have on hand or can easily find at your local market. Each element plays a vital role — from the aromatic spices in the meatballs to the cool creaminess of the tzatziki and the bright burst of the fresh veggies, every ingredient brings something delicious to the bowl.
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef: The rich and flavorful base for the juicy meatballs.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
- 1/4 cup grated onion: Adds moisture and subtle sweetness inside the meatballs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Pure Mediterranean magic that infuses the meatballs and tzatziki.
- 1 large egg: Binds the meat mixture perfectly without weighing it down.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh herb note that brightens the meatballs beautifully.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Essential in providing that iconic Greek flavor that pairs seamlessly with tzatziki.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a warm, fragrant earthiness traditional to Greek cooking.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Subtly enhances the meatballs with a hint of spice and warmth.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances and amplifies all the savory flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: A touch of heat to awaken the palate.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For frying meatballs to golden perfection.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for your refreshing tzatziki sauce.
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained: Adds crispness and moisture to tzatziki without watering it down.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Offers a lively citrus tang that brightens the sauce.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Infuses the tzatziki with that signature herby freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the tzatziki perfectly.
- 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice: Provides a fragrant, fluffy base for the bowls.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cucumber, sliced: Adds a cool crunch to the fresh veggie medley.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives: Brings a salty, briny punch that complements rich meatballs.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: A sharp, slightly sweet bite that balances the creamy elements.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: The finishing touch that adds tangy richness to the bowl.
How to Make Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Greek Meatballs
In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, fresh parsley, dill, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything gently but thoroughly — you want the mixture evenly mixed without overworking it, which keeps your meatballs tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, aiming for uniform size so they cook evenly. This step is fun and hands-on, and it sets the stage for those perfectly bite-sized morsels that make this dish so enjoyable.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they’re nicely browned on all sides and cooked through — about 8 to 10 minutes. The scent that fills your kitchen at this point is basically the aroma of success.
Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
While the meatballs cook, combine the Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set it in the fridge to let the flavors mellow and the sauce chill — it’s the cool counterpoint that brings everything together.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked rice among your serving bowls. Arrange the meatballs over the rice, then artistically add the halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle generous dollops of tzatziki over the top and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
How to Serve Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra chopped dill or parsley add a lovely pop of color and flavor just before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the whole bowl can brighten flavors even more and elevate the freshness.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a wholesome main, but it pairs perfectly with crispy pita bread or a simple Greek salad to add more texture and variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this recipe deconstructed for a DIY bowl experience, where everyone gets to build their own plates. You can also serve the meatballs on skewers over the rice for a casual yet sophisticated presentation that’s great for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover meatballs, rice, and tzatziki in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This helps maintain textures and freshness, making your next meal just as delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked meatballs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Tzatziki is best made fresh, but you can freeze leftover plain yogurt separately if needed. Cooked rice can be frozen as well but may benefit from a splash of water when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet or the oven to keep them moist and tender. Warm rice in the microwave with a sprinkle of water and cover to steam it properly. Serve the chilled tzatziki fresh to enjoy its signature creaminess and tang.
FAQs
Can I use beef instead of lamb for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully here if you prefer a milder taste or want a more budget-friendly option. Mixing half lamb and half beef can also give a nice balance of flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe?
Yes! Try swapping meatballs for spiced falafel or grilled halloumi for a vegetarian-friendly bowl packed with protein and flavor.
How do I keep the tzatziki sauce from becoming watery?
Make sure to grate the cucumber and then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth before adding it to the yogurt. This step keeps your tzatziki thick and creamy.
Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?
Definitely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while quinoa offers a slightly crunchy texture and a protein boost. Both swap-ins work great and keep the bowls nutritious.
How long do the meatballs keep in the refrigerator?
You can safely store cooked meatballs in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. Just reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to make the Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe your go-to recipe whenever you want something flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare. It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors in one beautiful bowl, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too.
Print
Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
A flavorful Greek Meatball Bowl featuring tender lamb or beef meatballs, creamy homemade tzatziki, fluffy rice, and a fresh medley of vegetables. Perfect for a quick, wholesome meal that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Greek Meatballs
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly
- 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Make the Greek Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, fresh parsley, fresh dill, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated but do not overmix to keep the meatballs tender.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, making sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are evenly browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and refrigerate while assembling the bowls to allow flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked basmati or jasmine rice among four serving bowls. Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the rice.
- Add Fresh Veggies: Evenly distribute the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion around the meatballs.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle each bowl with a generous amount of prepared tzatziki sauce and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over everything. Serve immediately for a fresh and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a lighter option, lean ground beef or turkey can be substituted for lamb.
- Make sure to drain the grated cucumber well to prevent watery tzatziki.
- Meatballs can be baked in a 400°F oven for 20 minutes as an alternative to frying.
- Cook rice in advance or use leftover rice to speed up meal preparation.
- Fresh herbs like mint can be added to tzatziki for extra flavor.
