Herb And Kalamata Lamb Meatballs With Tzatziki
Mediterranean-inspired lamb meatballs folded with fresh parsley, mint, and sun-kissed authentic Pearls Specialties Greek Kalamata Olives. Served alongside a cool and creamy, yogurt/cucumber tzatziki dip.
Ingredients
For the Tzatziki
- ⅔ English cucumber
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1-2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
For the Meatballs
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 pound ground lamb
- ¼ cup grated yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minsed
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint
- ¼ cup chopped Pearls Specialties Kalamata Olives
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 egg
Instructions
Make the Tzatziki
- Grate the cucumber using the large side of a box grater.
- Place the grated cucumber into a fine mesh strainer and press on the cucumber to release the liquid. It's okay if a little liquid is left behind.
- Place the cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and yogurt into a mixing bowl. Stir until well combined. Season with additional salt, if needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for the flavors to meld while making the meatballs.
- When ready to serve, drizzle 1 to 2 teaspoons of olive oil over the top.
Make the Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 375F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, set aside.
- In a large bowl, stir together the breadcrumbs and milk until combined. Set aside for 5 to 10 minutes for the breadcrumbs to absorb the milk.
- Add the ground lamb, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, olives, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and egg to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter (about 2 tablespoons).
- Arrange the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Place into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve the meatballs along with tzatziki.