If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean charm and wholesome goodness, then this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines tender, flavorful meatballs with the cool creaminess of tzatziki, vibrant fresh vegetables, and fluffy rice for a meal that feels both hearty and fresh. Every bite gives you that perfect balance of spice, herbs, and bright zest — it’s like a Greek feast served in a single bowl, ready to impress your taste buds and your guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the savory meatballs to the refreshing vegetables and tangy sauce, every component comes together beautifully.
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef: Rich and juicy, this forms the base of those irresistible meatballs.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them tender.
- 1/4 cup grated onion: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to the meat mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses both the meatballs and tzatziki with aromatic warmth.
- 1 large egg: Binds the meatball ingredients together perfectly.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the meatballs with a fresh, herbaceous note.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Adds that unmistakable Greek herb flavor to the meatballs and sauce.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic seasoning that enhances the Mediterranean flair.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: Introduces a subtle earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the lamb or beef.
- 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying): For beautifully browned, crispy-edged meatballs.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for a cool, tangy tzatziki sauce.
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained: Adds crispness and freshness to the tzatziki.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Lifts the sauce with bright acidity.
- 2 cups cooked basmati or jasmine rice: The fluffy bed that makes this bowl satisfying and filling.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness and color.
- 1 cucumber, sliced: Fresh crunch to balance the meatiness.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives: Salty, briny bites that elevate the dish.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a mild sharpness and crunch.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Creamy and tangy finishing touch.
How to Make Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
Start by combining the ground lamb or beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, dill, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently but thoroughly mix all the ingredients until everything is evenly incorporated. Then, roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs — try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly and look picture-perfect.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, and cook them for about 8 to 10 minutes. Turn them gently every few minutes so they brown beautifully on all sides and cook through completely. When they’re done, they should be juicy inside with a lovely golden crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
While the meatballs are cooking, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated and well-drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This sauce adds a cool, creamy contrast that’s essential for balancing the bowl’s flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked rice evenly among four serving bowls. Then, artfully arrange the meatballs on top alongside the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle each bowl generously with the homemade tzatziki and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese to finish.
How to Serve Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra dill or parsley add a pop of green and fragrance, while a squeeze of lemon over the top enlivens the whole dish with brightness. Don’t shy away from extra crumbled feta or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a lush finish.
Side Dishes
This bowl is a full meal, but if you want to serve something on the side, consider crispy pita chips or a simple Greek salad. A chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing mint lemonade will also complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual mason jars or colorful bowls for a casual gathering. Lettuce cups can make for a great handheld version perfect for picnics or lunchboxes. Layering ingredients creates a stunning effect that invites everyone to dig in joyfully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover meatballs, rice, tzatziki, and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, the textures stay fresh, and you won’t end up with soggy veggies or watery sauce.
Freezing
The cooked meatballs freeze very well. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Avoid freezing the tzatziki as the texture changes.
Reheating
Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet or oven to keep them juicy. Warm the rice separately in the microwave or on the stove. Serve with fresh vegetables and a dollop of chilled tzatziki for that perfect mix of warm and cool, just like when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use chicken or turkey instead of lamb or beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used for a lighter version, though the flavor will be milder. Consider adding a little extra seasoning or herbs to keep the boldness you love in the original recipe.
How do I ensure the meatballs stay tender?
Don’t overmix the meat mixture; gently combine the ingredients to keep the texture light. Using breadcrumbs and an egg helps bind while retaining moisture, so you end up with tender meatballs every time.
Is it necessary to drain the cucumber for the tzatziki?
Yes, draining the grated cucumber is crucial to prevent watery tzatziki. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with the yogurt.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Easy! Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Everything else in the Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How long can I store the assembled bowls in the fridge?
It’s best to assemble the bowl right before eating to keep fresh textures and flavors vibrant. If you need to prepare ahead, store components separately and combine just before serving, ideally within 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe is truly one of those winning dishes that feels homemade with a touch of Mediterranean magic. It’s flexible, vibrant, and so satisfying — perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki, Rice & Fresh Veggies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant Greek Meatball Bowl featuring tender lamb or beef meatballs seasoned with fresh herbs and spices, served over fluffy basmati or jasmine rice and topped with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce and crisp fresh vegetables. This wholesome and colorful dish brings together the best of Mediterranean flavors in a simple and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
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)
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
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
Instructions
- Make the Greek Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb or beef, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, chopped dill, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Cook Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and the meatballs are cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked basmati or jasmine rice evenly among four serving bowls.
- Top the Bowls: Arrange the cooked meatballs on top of the rice, followed by halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle tzatziki sauce generously over the bowls and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese to finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh flavors.
Notes
- To prevent watery tzatziki, make sure to drain the grated cucumber well before mixing.
- Ground lamb provides authentic flavor, but ground beef is a great alternative.
- Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs; for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them.
- Leftover meatballs and tzatziki can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 2 days.
- Adjust seasoning of tzatziki to your preference for more lemon or garlic.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
