Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs

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Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs Recipe

These Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and packed with fresh herbs and ingredients inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. They’re baked to perfection for a healthier twist on traditional meatballs, and they pair wonderfully with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground turkey (lean or extra-lean)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra Mediterranean flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

For the Tzatziki Sauce (optional):

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, mint, garlic, onion, egg, oregano, cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  3. Mix everything together until well combined. You can use your hands or a spoon to gently mix.
  4. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should get around 16 meatballs.
  5. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush them lightly with olive oil to help them brown and keep them moist during baking.

2. Bake the Meatballs:

  1. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

3. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce (Optional):

  1. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh dill.
  2. Stir well and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Chill the sauce in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

4. Serve:

  1. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
  2. Serve the Mediterranean turkey meatballs with a side of tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, and a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the meatballs with a Greek salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese).
  • These meatballs also make a great filling for a pita or wrap, topped with tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Baked Turkey Meatballs! They’re packed with delicious flavors, light yet filling, and perfect for a healthy meal.

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