Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

If you’re craving something vibrant, hearty, and packed with incredible Mediterranean flavors, you are going to adore this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of juicy, spiced meatballs nestled on fluffy rice and topped with crisp veggies, briny olives, creamy feta, and that cooling, garlicky tzatziki sauce that ties it all together beautifully. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this bowl is effortless to pull together yet full of fresh, authentic taste that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing a unique note to the dish. Together, they create a dynamic flavor profile that balances savory, tangy, and fresh elements perfectly, while the texture combination keeps every bite exciting.

• Ground lamb or beef: The star protein, rich and flavorful, perfect for tender meatballs.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs for that ideal texture, keeping them juicy but firm.
• Grated onion: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the meatball mix.
• Minced garlic: Infuses the meatballs and tzatziki with aromatic depth and zing.
• Large egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together without weighing down the meatballs.
• Fresh parsley and dill: These herbs brighten the meatballs with fresh, green notes that scream Greek cuisine.
• Dried oregano and cumin: A touch of earthiness and warmth that rounds out the flavor beautifully.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the ingredients to life.
• Olive oil: For cooking meatballs to a perfect golden crust and for richness in the tzatziki sauce.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy – the base of the refreshing tzatziki topping.
• Grated cucumber: Adds crispness and moisture to the tzatziki, essential for that classic cooling effect.
• Lemon juice: Gives the tzatziki a bright, citrusy lift.
• Cooked basmati or jasmine rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it’s the bowl’s comforting base.
• Fresh veggies (cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion): Provide crunch, sweetness, and a burst of freshness.
• Kalamata olives: Salty and slightly tangy, they bring a lovely brine contrast.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled on top for that creamy, salty finish that completes the bowl.

How to Make Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by gathering all your meatball ingredients in a large mixing bowl — ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, dill, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until combined. Then, roll the mixture into bite-size meatballs about one inch in diameter, ensuring they’re uniform so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs, cooking them until they develop a beautiful golden crust on the outside and are cooked through on the inside. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them occasionally to brown all sides. The aroma while they cook is simply irresistible!

Step 3: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs are cooking, whisk together the yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to drain excess liquid), minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and pop it into the fridge to let the flavors meld and chill until serving.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Divide the cooked rice evenly into serving bowls. Then artfully arrange your golden meatballs on top alongside fresh, vibrant veggies — cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion. Dollop or drizzle the luscious tzatziki sauce over everything and finish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese that melts slightly against the warm ingredients.

How to Serve Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing this bowl elevates the eating experience and adds layers of texture. Sprinkle some extra chopped fresh dill or parsley for a herbaceous note. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving thrills the taste buds and keeps everything bright and vibrant.

Side Dishes

For a more complete meal, pair this dish with warm pita bread or a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon. Roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini also complement the bowl beautifully, bringing smoky, tender flavors into play that contrast nicely with the fresh ingredients.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe in large, colorful bowls or even mason jars for a fun twist perfect for picnics or meal prep. Layer the rice and meatballs with veggies and sauce so everyone can see the vibrant Mediterranean colors before digging in. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a few capers can also add a surprising crunch and punch of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the meatballs, rice, and tzatziki separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the tzatziki from becoming watery. Consume within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Rice can also be frozen but is best fresh. Avoid freezing tzatziki as yogurt-based sauces tend to separate upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Heat rice separately, preferably in the microwave with a sprinkle of water to keep it moist. Add fresh tzatziki after reheating to preserve its creamy texture and bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of lamb for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground beef works wonderfully and will still give you juicy, flavorful meatballs. Lamb adds a distinct richness, but beef is a great option if you prefer a milder taste.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the meatballs with falafel balls or spiced chickpea patties for a delicious vegetarian version while keeping the rest of the bowl the same.

How long should I cook the meatballs to ensure they are done?

Cooking meatballs over medium heat for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning regularly for even browning, is perfect. Make sure they are browned all over and cooked through inside.

Can I make the tzatziki sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! Tzatziki actually tastes better if it sits in the fridge for a couple of hours or overnight, as the flavors have time to meld beautifully.

What type of rice works best in this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe?

Basmati or jasmine rice is ideal because they are fluffy and fragrant, complementing the bold flavors of the meatballs and fresh veggies without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors coming together in one satisfying, wholesome bowl. It’s approachable enough for weekday dinners yet special enough to impress guests, and I promise it will become one of your go-to meals. So grab your apron, dive in, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe

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3.8 from 59 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A flavorful Greek Meatball Bowl featuring tender lamb or beef meatballs, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, fluffy basmati rice, and a fresh medley of vegetables. This wholesome dish combines Mediterranean spices with a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce for a satisfying and vibrant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the 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 the Bowl 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

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Instructions

1. Make the Greek Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, dill, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Form Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
3. Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well, adjust seasoning to taste, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked basmati or jasmine rice evenly among serving bowls.
6. Add Toppings: Arrange the cooked meatballs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion over the rice in each bowl.
7. Finish and Serve: Drizzle each bowl generously with the prepared tzatziki sauce and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

• You can substitute ground beef for ground lamb if preferred.
• Ensure the cucumber for the tzatziki is well-drained to avoid watery sauce.
• Cook meatballs in batches if your skillet is small to avoid overcrowding and uneven cooking.
• For a lighter option, bake the meatballs in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.
• Use fresh herbs for the best flavor but dried herbs can be substituted if fresh are unavailable.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Greek