Name: GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken or turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat); 1 medium cucumber, grated; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 1 cup fresh veggies (e.g., diced tomatoes and bell peppers)

If you’re searching for a show-stopping meal that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, the GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES is about to become your new obsession. This dish layers juicy, herby meatballs with a tangy homemade tzatziki, fluffy rice, and a medley of crisp, colorful veggies, turning every bite into a little Mediterranean getaway. Whether you need something quick for a weeknight dinner or want to wow at your next gathering, this vibrant bowl is an easy, customizable, and utterly satisfying way to gather loved ones around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES comes from a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients—each one chosen for maximum flavor, texture, or color. These staples blend seamlessly, creating a bowl that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ground chicken or turkey: Lean proteins like these create tender, moist meatballs that soak up all the herbs and spices.
Breadcrumbs: These bind the meatballs while adding just the right amount of softness.
Fresh parsley: Brightens the meatballs with herbal freshness and a pop of color.
Garlic cloves: Essential for that signature Mediterranean aroma and a savory kick.
Salt and pepper: Classic seasonings to round out and enhance the flavors of the dish.
Greek yogurt (full-fat): The base for creamy, tangy tzatziki—full-fat ensures unbeatable silkiness.
Cucumber: Grated and squeezed dry, it infuses the sauce with cool, refreshing crunch.
Lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Adds zing and brightness to both the tzatziki and the overall bowl.
Cooked rice (white or brown): The fluffy comfort base that soaks up sauces and juices beautifully.
Fresh veggies (e.g., diced tomatoes, bell peppers): Give the bowl irresistible texture, sweetness, and color.

How to Make GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Start by combining your ground chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything until just combined—overmixing can make meatballs tough, so focus on keeping things light and tender.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatballs

With your mixture ready, shape it into one-inch meatballs and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is wonderfully therapeutic and great for getting kids or friends to join in. Pop the tray in a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the meatballs are golden and just cooked through.

Step 3: Whip Up the Tzatziki Sauce

While the meatballs are roasting, it’s time to make that addictive creamy tzatziki! Combine full-fat Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (give it a good squeeze to remove excess liquid), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until silky and well-mixed. The combination of cool yogurt, lively lemon, and crunchy cucumber is pure perfection.

Step 4: Prepare the Rice

Whether you’re using white or brown, cook your rice according to package instructions while the meatballs bake. Fluffy, tender rice is a non-negotiable base for any great bowl, catching all those irresistible juices and flavors from the meatballs and tzatziki.

Step 5: Chop and Prep the Fresh Veggies

Diced tomatoes and bell peppers are classic, but feel free to add your favorites—think crisp cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, or even a handful of baby spinach. The veggies add texture, color, and the freshest flavor to every bite of your GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls

Now for the fun part—gather your components and start layering! Begin with a generous scoop of fluffy rice, then arrange meatballs on top, scatter your chosen veggies, and finish with a hearty dollop of tzatziki. Serve immediately for a stunning meal that brings the Mediterranean to your kitchen table.

How to Serve GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES

Garnishes

Finish your GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES with a flourish! Fresh chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, or a sprinkle of dill all add visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of flaky sea salt can take things over the top.

Side Dishes

This bowl stands strong on its own, but pairing it with warm pita bread, a simple Greek salad, or roasted lemon potatoes makes for an even heartier spread. These sides soak up leftover tzatziki and tie the meal together for a true Mediterranean feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special gathering, try assembling the ingredients “bar-style” and let everyone build their own GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES. Or serve everything family-style on a big platter—those layers of color and texture are sure to draw compliments!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Store each element—meatballs, rice, veggies, and sauce—in separate airtight containers so nothing gets soggy and you can quickly reassemble fresh bowls any time.

Freezing

The meatballs freeze very well! Once cooled, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to three months. The rice can be frozen, too, but it’s best to skip freezing the veggies and tzatziki; they’re meant to be enjoyed as fresh as possible for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the meatballs and rice in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. Serve with freshly prepped veggies and a swirl of chilled tzatziki—this way, every bowl tastes as vibrant as the day you made it.

FAQs

Can I use beef or lamb instead of chicken or turkey?

Absolutely! Traditional Greek meatballs often use beef or lamb, so feel free to substitute if that’s your preference. Just adjust the cook time as needed since fattier meats may take slightly longer.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt for the tzatziki?

You can use regular full-fat plain yogurt in a pinch—just strain it through a cheesecloth or coffee filter for a thicker consistency so your tzatziki stays creamy.

Can I make the GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and ensure your rice and yogurt are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap.

How can I make these bowls vegetarian?

Swap the meatballs for baked falafel, roasted chickpeas, or even store-bought vegetarian “meatballs.” The GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES is endlessly adaptable!

Can I meal prep these bowls for lunches?

Yes! Assemble individual containers with rice, meatballs, and veggies, but keep the tzatziki separate until just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the rice from getting soggy.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the GREEK MEATBALL BOWL WITH TZATZIKI, RICE & FRESH VEGGIES has become a go-to in my kitchen—it’s hearty, healthy, beautiful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Gather your favorite people and treat them to a bowlful of Mediterranean sunshine; I promise you’ll want to make it again and again!