Rustic Mediterranean Lamb Meatball Bowl with Smoked Honey, Halloumi & Herbed Tzatziki
Description
This vibrant Mediterranean bowl combines tender, spiced lamb meatballs with golden-browned halloumi, creamy herbed tzatziki, and roasted vegetables. A drizzle of smoky honey ties everything together, creating a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Serve this hearty bowl for a comforting weeknight dinner or impress guests with a restaurant-quality Mediterranean feast at home.
Ingredients
For the Lamb Meatballs:
1 lb (450 g) ground lamb
1 small onion, finely grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 large egg
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 tbsp olive oil (for frying or roasting)
For the Herbed Tzatziki:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl:
1 cup cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice
1 red bell pepper, roasted or sautéed
1 zucchini, roasted or sautéed
1/2 red onion, roasted or sautéed
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
6 oz (170 g) halloumi cheese, sliced and grilled or pan-fried
2 tbsp smoked honey (or regular honey, lightly smoked over flame if possible)
2 tbsp olive oil
Lemon wedges, for serving
Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, mint, dill)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lamb Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, grated onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
Add the egg and breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep meatballs tender.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1–1.5 inches in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides (about 5–6 minutes), then finish cooking in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or cook entirely in the oven on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 18–20 minutes until cooked through.
2. Make the Herbed Tzatziki:
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, parsley, and lemon juice.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.
3. Prepare Vegetables & Halloumi:
Roast or sauté red bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion in olive oil until tender and slightly caramelized (about 10–12 minutes).
Grill or pan-fry halloumi slices until golden brown on each side (about 2–3 minutes per side).
4. Assemble the Bowl:
Place cooked quinoa/couscous/rice in the base of each bowl.
Arrange roasted vegetables and cherry tomatoes around the grains.
Add lamb meatballs and grilled halloumi.
Drizzle smoked honey over meatballs and halloumi for a sweet-smoky accent.
Dollop herbed tzatziki on top or to the side.
Garnish with fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon.
Cooking & Prep Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Tips & FAQs
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether in the meatballs.
Q: Can I use chicken or beef instead of lamb?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef will work, but lamb gives the authentic Mediterranean flavor. Chicken works too, though it will be lighter in taste.
Q: How can I smoke honey if I don’t have smoked honey?
A: Lightly heat honey in a pan and briefly expose it to a small piece of burning wood or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Q: Can this bowl be made ahead?
A: You can prepare the meatballs, tzatziki, and roasted vegetables ahead of time. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q: How spicy are the meatballs?
A: They are mild and aromatic. You can add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat if desired.
This bowl balances savory lamb, smoky-sweet honey, salty halloumi, fresh herbs, and creamy tzatziki—a true Mediterranean feast in a bowl!