Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) ground turkey (preferably lean)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup (50g) Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil, extra virgin, plus more for drizzling
  • 1/4 cup (packed) fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 cup (240ml) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated, then squeezed dry
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, extra virgin
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Tzatziki: Grate, seed, and drain the cucumber. Combine all tzatziki ingredients in a small bowl. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, Panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, olive oil, fresh herbs (parsley, mint, oregano), lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix all ingredients with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the meatballs hold their shape.
  5. Shape the Meatballs: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (optional). Roll the turkey mixture into roughly 1-inch meatballs.
  6. Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside.
  7. Serve: Serve the baked Greek turkey meatballs warm, drizzled with the homemade tzatziki sauce.