Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs Bowl with Rice, Veggies & Tzatziki
This wholesome Greek-inspired bowl features juicy herbed turkey meatballs served over fluffy rice with colorful roasted veggies and a cooling tzatziki sauce. It’s packed with protein, freshness, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors — perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
⏱️ Time
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs
1 lb (450g) ground turkey
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
¼ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp cumin (optional, for warmth)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Rice
1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
2 cups chicken broth or water
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt, to taste
For the Veggies
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce
½ cup Greek yogurt
¼ cup cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
½ tsp dried dill or fresh if available
Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
1. In a bowl, mix ground turkey, garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, cumin, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Form small meatballs (about 1½-inch wide).
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook meatballs for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Optional: Finish in oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes for extra crispness.
2. Cook the Rice
1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil .
2. Add rice and toast for 1 minute.
3. Pour in broth or water, add salt, and bring to a boil.
4. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until fluffy.
3. Roast or Sauté the Veggies
1. Toss cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, or sauté in a skillet for 6–8 minutes until tender.
4. Make the Tzatziki Sauce
1. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, and salt.
2. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Assemble the Bowl
1. Spoon a base of rice into each bowl.
2. Add roasted veggies and turkey meatballs.
3. Generously drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
4. Garnish with extra herbs, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of feta cheese (optional).
Notes & Tips
For more color, add roasted carrots or red onion to the veggies.
You can swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Make a double batch of tzatziki — it stores well and pairs beautifully with other meals.
These meatballs are also delicious in pita wraps or on salads.
️ Nutrition information
Calories: ~540 kcal
Protein: 42 g
Carbohydrates: 46 g
Fat: 19 g
Fiber: 6 g