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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 4.4 from 71 reviews
  • Author: Megane
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Description

These Greek Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Orzo & Creamy Feta Yogurt Sauce are a delicious and satisfying meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Tender turkey meatballs are paired with a tangy feta yogurt sauce, lemon-infused orzo, and roasted veggies, creating a well-rounded dish that is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.


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
  • 1-3 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
  • 1-2 tablespoons butter
  • Freshly ground salt and pepper
  • Optional: 1/2 cup pitted and sliced kalamata olives

To garnish:

  • Fresh torn mint and parsley

Instructions

  1. Make the feta yogurt sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Add water if needed to reach desired consistency.
  2. Preheat oven: to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Prepare meatballs: Mix turkey with seasonings, form into meatballs, and place on the baking sheet.
  4. Roast veggies: Toss peppers and onions with oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on the baking sheet with the meatballs.
  5. Cook: Bake for 17-23 minutes until meatballs reach 165°F.
  6. Cook orzo: Cook orzo according to package instructions, then mix with lemon, butter, salt, pepper, and olives.
  7. Serve: Plate orzo, top with meatballs and veggies, drizzle with feta sauce, and garnish with mint and parsley. Serve with pita bread if desired.

Notes

  • This recipe pairs well with homemade tzatziki sauce.
  • Coconut flour can be used instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
  • Feel free to double the sauce for extra dipping.
  • Meatballs can be made ahead and frozen.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 49g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg