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Greek Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Orzo & Creamy Feta Yogurt Sauce Recipe

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Orzo & Creamy Feta Yogurt Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 69 reviews
  • Author: Alvarez
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Greek turkey meatballs are served with lemon orzo and topped with a creamy feta yogurt sauce. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a delicious and satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the feta yogurt sauce:

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup feta crumbles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Freshly ground salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 13 teaspoons water to thin sauce

For the meatballs:

  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

For the veggies:

  • 1 red bell pepper, julienned
  • 1 orange bell pepper, julienned
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Freshly ground salt and pepper

For the lemon orzo:

  • 1 1/3 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Juice from 1/2 lemon
  • 12 tablespoons butter
  • Freshly ground salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup pitted and sliced kalamata olives

To garnish:

  • Fresh torn mint and parsley

For serving:

  • Optional: Pita bread

Instructions

  1. Make the feta yogurt sauce: Combine yogurt, feta, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder in a food processor. Process until smooth, adding water to thin if needed. Set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Prepare the meatballs: Mix ground turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, parsley, mint, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into golf ball-sized meatballs.
  4. Prepare the veggies: Toss peppers and onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and place meatballs among the veggies. Bake for 17-23 minutes.
  5. Cook the orzo: Cook orzo, then combine with lemon zest, lemon juice, butter, salt, pepper, and olives.
  6. Serve: Plate orzo, top with meatballs and veggies, drizzle with feta yogurt sauce, and garnish with mint and parsley. Serve with pita bread.

Notes

  • This recipe pairs well with homemade tzatziki sauce.
  • Coconut flour can be used instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (1/4 of meatballs, orzo, veggies & sauce)
  • Calories: 565 cal
  • Sugar: 6.2 g
  • Fat: 19.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 59.8 g
  • Fiber: 5.1 g
  • Protein: 39.5 g