With all the beef and pork meatballs out there, it’s easy to overlook other tasty options. Lamb, for instance, is just as yummy but often forgotten. It’s leaner and healthier than beef and is a big part of Greek cooking. These lamb meatballs are packed with spices and come with a creamy yogurt tzatziki sauce that adds a nice tang.

While Americans usually eat meatballs with pasta, these lamb ones are best enjoyed on their own or as a sandwich in pita bread. Adding water to the mix helps make the meatballs light and fluffy. If you like your meatballs denser, you can skip this step. This recipe is great for those looking to try new flavors and is a budget-friendly way to treat your loved ones to a tasty Mediterranean dinner.

INGRIDENTS:

For the meatballs:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground lamb
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup flour (all-purpose or almond flour)
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 2 large eggs

For the Tzatziki sauce:

  • 1 cup whole Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup grated zucchini, skin on
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
  • Fresh chopped mint (optional)
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a big bowl, mix together all the meatball ingredients until it’s all smooth.
  • Use your hands to roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and put them on the baking sheets in one layer.
  • Put the baking sheets in the oven and bake the meatballs until they’re brown on the outside and cooked through, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes. If you want them extra crispy, you can leave them in for 30 to 40 minutes.
  • Take the meatballs out of the oven, get rid of any grease, and let them cool.
  • In another bowl, mix up all the sauce ingredients until they’re well combined.
  • Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it.
  • When you’re ready to eat, put the meatballs on a plate and pour the sauce into another bowl for dipping.
  • If you like, you can sprinkle some fresh chopped mint on top as a garnish.
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