Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki
These Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki will be your new favorite vegetarian meal. Perfect for dinner or a special gathering, they combine hearty lentils with fresh herbs and spices. The addition of creamy tzatziki elevates these meatballs, making them flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy this dish for a nutritious weeknight dinner or serve it at your next gathering to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick prep, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and fresh herbs creates a delightful explosion of flavors.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, these meatballs are a nourishing choice for any meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, in wraps, or over grains—perfect for any occasion.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week, saving you cooking time.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool helps blend the ingredients quickly while maintaining texture.
- Baking sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy cleanup when lined with parchment paper.
- Mixing bowl: Vital for combining ingredients before forming the meatballs.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 1/2 cups cooked brown lentils (can use canned)
- 1/2 red onion – finely chopped
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs (gluten free if needed)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped mint
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 egg
- 1/2-1 teaspoon salt
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- juice from 1/2 lemon
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup shredded cucumber
- juice from 1/2 lemon
- pinch salt
- pinch black pepper
- 1 garlic clove – minced
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill
Optional Sides
- Other veggies of choice
- Cooked grain of choice
How to Make Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki
These Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs will be your new favorite vegetarian meal.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is key to achieving a crispy exterior on the meatballs.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
Add all meatball ingredients to your food processor. Partially blend until well combined but not pureed; you want some texture for added bite.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Roll out the mixture into meatballs about one inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and firm to touch.
Step 5: Mix Tzatziki Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, mix together all tzatziki ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your baked lentil meatballs warm alongside tzatziki sauce. Pair them with your choice of veggies or grains for a complete meal.
How to Serve Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki
These Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs are not just delicious, but they also make for a versatile meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a simple weeknight dinner, these meatballs can be paired with various sides and sauces to elevate your dining experience.
Pairing Suggestions
- Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese that complements the flavors of the meatballs.
- Pita Bread: Soft pita is perfect for wrapping up meatballs and dipping into tzatziki.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add nutrition and flavor to your plate.
- Quinoa or Rice: These grains provide a hearty base that pairs well with the meatballs and sauce.

How to Perfect Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki
These Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs are not only tasty but also easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome dish that everyone will love.
Cooking Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh herbs like mint and parsley enhances the flavor of your meatballs.
- Don’t Overblend: When using the food processor, blend just enough to combine the ingredients while retaining some texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your mixture before baking and adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki
These Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Couscous: This fluffy grain is quick to prepare and makes an excellent base for meatballs.
- Tabbouleh Salad: A light salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon adds freshness.
- Hummus Platter: A creamy hummus dip alongside fresh veggies creates a perfect starter.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a crunchy element that balances the meal.
- Mediterranean Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice with herbs brings extra taste to the table.
- Baba Ganoush: This smoky eggplant dip is another delicious option for dipping or spreading on pita.
With these suggestions, you can create a delightful meal featuring Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki that everyone will enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Over-blending the mixture: Blending the meatball ingredients too much will create a mushy texture. Blend just until combined for the best results.
- Not seasoning enough: These lentil meatballs need proper seasoning. Taste the mixture before baking and adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheet to ensure easy removal of the meatballs.
- Ignoring cooking time: Every oven is different. Check your meatballs at 30 minutes and adjust the time if needed for a perfect bake.
- Forgetting to preheat: Skipping preheating the oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your oven is hot before placing in your meatballs.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the meatballs to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki
- Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.
Reheating Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking tray and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place meatballs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second increments, checking until they are warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or oil. Add meatballs and cover, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. This will keep your dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities while maintaining taste and texture.
Can I substitute lentils in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace brown lentils with green or red lentils, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I serve with Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki?
These meatballs pair well with various sides like quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables. A fresh salad also complements their flavors nicely!
How do I store leftover tzatziki sauce?
Store tzatziki sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir it well before serving again as it may separate slightly over time.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki are not only healthy but also packed with flavor, making them an excellent choice for dinner any night of the week. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices, or even pairing them with different sides for variety!
Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki
Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with tzatziki sauce are a delightful vegetarian meal that combines the earthy flavors of lentils with fresh herbs and spices. These savory meatballs are oven-baked to perfection, offering a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Served with a creamy tzatziki sauce, they make for an impressive dish that’s perfect for dinner or entertaining guests. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your weeknight rotation. Whether you enjoy them on their own, in pita wraps, or over grains, these lentil meatballs will surely become a favorite!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked brown lentils
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped mint
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 egg
- 1/2–1 teaspoon salt
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- juice from 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup shredded cucumber
- juice from 1/2 lemon
- pinch salt
- pinch black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a food processor, combine all meatball ingredients and pulse until well mixed but slightly chunky.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and firm.
- For tzatziki, mix yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Serve warm meatballs with tzatziki sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg