Greek Meatballs Bowls with Tzatziki & Greek Salad

 

Greek meatball bowls made with juicy turkey meatballs, creamy tzatziki, and a bright Greek salad. A fresh, satisfying dinner perfect for a New Year reset.

Greek Meatballs Bowls with Tzatziki & Greek Salad

The time between Christmas and New Year always feels a little blurry to me — we have leftover sweets on the counter, and the cozy days seem to run together.   By the time January 1st rolls around, I’m not looking for diet resolutions, I just want a meal that feels fresh, a little lighter, and satisfying — something that helps me ease into the new year instead of rushing it.

These Greek Meatball Bowls do exactly that. The turkey meatballs are tender and full of flavor, the tzatziki adds that cool, creamy contrast, and the bright Greek salad brings everything back to life with lemon, dill, and crisp vegetables. It’s the kind of meal that feels satisfying without being heavy, balanced without being boring — real food that actually makes you want to sit down and enjoy it.

I love starting the year with meals like this because they set the tone for what I want more of: simple dinners, fresh flavors, and recipes that fit easily into real life. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet New Year’s Day at home or planning ahead for busy weeknights, this Greek Meatball Bowl with Tzatziki & Greek Salad is a gentle reminder that a fresh start doesn’t have to be too restricting — sometimes it comes in the form of a really good meal.

Wishing everyone a Happy 2026!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Ground Turkey - Lean and flavorful, ground turkey keeps the meatballs light while still tender and satisfying. It absorbs the herbs and spices beautifully, making every bite feel well-seasoned and comforting.

• Fresh Dill - Dill is the backbone of Greek flavor here. It adds a fresh, slightly grassy note that brightens the meatballs and ties them perfectly to the salad.

• Panko Breadcrumbs - Panko keeps the meatballs soft and juicy rather than dense. It helps bind everything together without weighing the mixture down.

• Egg - The egg acts as a binder, giving the meatballs structure while keeping them tender.

• Red Onion - Finely diced red onion adds gentle sweetness and depth to the meatballs, and a little extra bite in the salad.

• Garlic - Garlic brings warmth and savory flavor to the meatballs without overpowering the other ingredients.

• Lemon Juice - Fresh lemon juice brightens both the meatballs and the salad, adding that clean, fresh flavor that makes this dish feel balanced.

• Dried Oregano, Paprika & Basil - This simple spice blend adds warmth and classic Mediterranean flavor without being too heavy or spicy.

• Cucumber - Crisp cucumber adds freshness and crunch to the salad, keeping the bowls light and refreshing.

• Cherry Tomatoes - Juicy cherry tomatoes bring a pop of sweetness and color that balances the savory meatballs.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil - A good olive oil ties the salad together and adds richness without heaviness.

• Feta Cheese - Salty, creamy feta adds contrast and that unmistakable Greek flavor to every bite.

• Tzatziki Sauce - Cool and creamy, tzatziki balances the warm meatballs and adds a refreshing finish to the bowl.

• Pita Bread - Soft pita makes this feel like a complete, comforting meal — perfect for scooping and soaking up every bit of sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Ground chicken can be used instead of turkey with great results.

• Dried dill works in a pinch — use less since it’s more concentrated.

• Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can replace panko if that’s what you have on hand.

• Persian cucumbers are a great swap for English cucumber.

Simple Variations to Try

• Grain Bowl Style: Serve everything over rice, orzo, or quinoa for a heartier bowl.

• Lettuce Bowl: Skip the pita and serve over chopped romaine or mixed greens for a lighter option.

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatballs or drizzle with chili oil before serving.

• Sauce Swap: Hummus or garlic yogurt sauce can be used in place of tzatziki for a different flavor profile.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture. Gently combining the ingredients keeps the meatballs tender.

• Searing first adds flavor. A quick browning in the skillet creates a better texture and deeper flavor before baking.

• Use a thermometer if you have one. It’s the easiest way to ensure perfectly cooked meatballs without drying them out.

• Prep components ahead. The meatballs and salad can be made in advance and assembled when ready to eat.

• Store everything separately. This keeps leftovers fresh and prevents sogginess.

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5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

A light and refreshing Mediterranean Zucchini Ribbon Salad made with just 5 ingredients and ready in 20 minutes! Tossed with za’atar vinaigrette, tomatoes, olives, and feta — the perfect healthy side dish.

5-Ingredient Zucchini Ribbon Salad (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

I’m back with another 5-ingredient weeknight wonder — and this one is bringing major fresh and sunny Mediterranean vibes to the table! I'm loving these quick, uncomplicated recipes for my weeknight meals because I'm just too tired to tackle anything complex at the moment.  However, I do want something beautiful and delicious on my plate.

That’s exactly why this Zucchini Ribbon Salad is such a side dish lifesaver. Cutting the zucchini into ribbons feels fancy (but really takes zero extra effort), and the za’atar vinaigrette gives everything a herby, zesty punch. Add juicy cherry tomatoes, salty olives, and creamy feta and serve it alongside some Mediterranean seasoned grilled chicken — and suddenly dinner feels like it came straight from a seaside cafe.

And did I mention that it is a no cook dish?  The zucchini is raw, but not to worry as the thin slices make it tender and the taste is crisp and fresh.  This is a great weeknight-friendly dish that can accompany so many main dishes.   A total win in my book!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Just 5 simple ingredients turning into a stunning, fresh salad!

• Zucchini - Tender ribbons make the salad feel elegant — and they soak up every bit of flavor.

• Cherry Tomatoes - A burst of juicy sweetness to balance the savory ingredients.

• Kalamata Olives - Briney + bold — a little goes a long way in adding rich Mediterranean flavor.

• Feta Cheese - Creamy and salty crumbles give this salad its finishing touch.

• Za’atar Vinaigrette - Just olive oil, vinegar, and za’atar — bright, herbaceous, and effortless.

Substitutions & Variations

Sometimes you don’t have exactly what a recipe calls for — or you just want to mix it up a bit! Here are some easy substitutions and fun variations for the Zucchini Ribbon Salad:

Ingredient Swaps

Not everything has to be exactly as listed — these swaps work beautifully:

• Feta Cheese: Don’t have feta? No problem! Goat cheese or shaved Parmesan are both delicious alternatives that still give you that creamy, salty punch.

• Kalamata Olives: If you prefer a milder olive or want a different flavor, try green Castelvetrano olives or even capers. They give the same briny pop without being too bold.

• Vinegar: Out of red wine vinegar? Lemon juice works perfectly and gives the salad an extra bright, fresh flavor.

Flavor Variations

Want to play with textures or make the salad a bit heartier? Here are some easy ideas:

• Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a satisfying main-dish salad. 

• Crunch Factor: Add toasted pine nuts, pistachios, or even sliced almonds for a little extra texture and a nutty flavor. It makes the salad feel even more special.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

Even though this salad is super simple, a few quick tips can help it turn out perfectly every time:

• Slice zucchini ribbons carefully: Use a vegetable peeler or a mandoline for thin, even ribbons. If they’re too thick, they can be a bit tough, and if too thin, they may wilt too quickly.

• Pat zucchini dry if needed: If your zucchini is very watery, lightly pat the ribbons with a paper towel to keep the salad crisp.

• Make the vinaigrette ahead: The za’atar vinaigrette can be whisked together a few hours in advance — just toss the zucchini ribbons right before serving to prevent sogginess.

• Serve fresh: This salad is best eaten within 2 hours of assembly — it’s all about that fresh, crisp zucchini texture.

       Set the Mood       

Want to create a fresh Mediterranean moment at home?

Then let the vibe match the flavors—here’s how to set the mood while you serve up this bright and breezy Zucchini Ribbon Salad.

     5-Ingredient Meal Series     

Looking for quick, flavorful meals that require minimal effort? Here’s the full lineup of 5-Ingredient Meals in this series — each designed to be ready in 20–30 minutes, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights:

5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Juicy grilled steak paired with Southwestern-style salad kit, black beans, avocado, and bell peppers.

5-Ingredient Caesar Pasta Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Mini farfalle pasta tossed with Caesar salad kit, salami, pepperoncini, red onion, and Parmesan-crouton topping.

5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!) - Crisp kohlrabi and cabbage with a zesty chili-peanut dressing, lime, and cilantro — perfect for a refreshing side.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad

  

These Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt and Mediterranean Salad are bursting with bright, fresh flavor. Juicy, tender, and easy enough for a weeknight, this recipe is inspired by Primal Gourmet’s healthy Mediterranean-style dishes.

The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad

My husband and I have always been drawn to Mediterranean flavors — the brightness of lemon, the freshness of herbs, and the way a drizzle of olive oil can make even the simplest ingredients feel special.

One evening while scrolling Instagram, I came across a recipe from Primal Gourmet, one of my favorite creators for Whole30 and healthy spins on global cuisines. His Mediterranean turkey burgers immediately caught my eye — juicy patties packed with spinach and feta, paired with a tangy yogurt sauce and crisp salad. I had to try it.

I didn’t stray far from his version, because honestly, it was perfect as-is. The flavors are incredible — the turkey stays juicy and tender, the feta adds a creamy bite, and that lemon-dill yogurt ties everything together. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet fresh and elegant enough to serve for guests.

This has quickly become one of my new favorites — a dish that tastes like sunshine, simplicity, and the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite.

Enjoy!

Visit Primal Gourmet here.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

These Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers come together with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that balance brightness and comfort beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Turkey: Lean yet tender, turkey provides the perfect canvas for Mediterranean herbs and creamy feta. Choose 93% lean for juicy, flavorful patties.

• Baby Spinach: Adds color, moisture, and a subtle earthy note that keeps the burgers tender and nutrient-packed.

• Feta Cheese: Brings salty, tangy flavor and little creamy pops in every bite. Look for authentic Greek feta packed in brine for the best flavor.

• Garlic: Freshly grated garlic deepens the flavor and ties together the lemon, dill, and herbs.

• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the burger mixture together while adding a little richness.

• Fresh Dill: Adds a bright, herbal kick to the yogurt sauce that complements the feta perfectly.

• Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy — it’s the base for that dreamy lemon-dill sauce that cools and balances the savory burgers.

• Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and acidity, essential to achieving that true Mediterranean flavor.

• Olive Oil: The heart of Mediterranean cooking — use a good-quality extra-virgin oil for both the salad and cooking the burgers.

• Fresh Vegetables (Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Lettuce): Crisp, juicy, and colorful, they round out the plate with texture and freshness.

• Fresh Parsley: A little sprinkle adds color, freshness, and that classic Mediterranean green note.

Substitutions and Variations

These turkey burgers are wonderfully flexible — you can adjust them for what you have on hand or give them a new flavor twist altogether.

Basic Substitutions

• Protein: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a similar lean option. For a richer flavor, try ground lamb or beef.

• Greens: Use finely chopped kale or arugula instead of spinach. Both add a slightly different flavor and extra nutrients.

• Cheese: If you’re out of feta, try goat cheese for a creamy tang or crumbled cotija for a saltier bite.

• Yogurt: Regular Greek yogurt is best, but dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt work for a lighter option.

• Herbs: No dill? Try fresh mint, basil, or oregano for a different Mediterranean spin.

Variation 1: Greek Island Style

Add a few chopped Kalamata olives and a pinch of lemon zest to the burger mixture, then top the finished burgers with sliced cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil. The olives bring depth and briny balance to the creamy feta.

Variation 2: Spicy Mediterranean Twist

Mix a teaspoon of harissa paste or a pinch of cayenne into the turkey mixture and top the burgers with a spoonful of tzatziki instead of the lemon-dill yogurt. This version brings heat and depth while keeping that fresh, Mediterranean vibe.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Chill the Patties: Refrigerating the burger mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps them firm up and hold their shape beautifully.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed — overworking the meat can make the burgers dense.

• Use Damp Hands: Lightly wet your hands before forming the patties; this prevents sticking and gives you smooth, even shapes.

• Cook in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan so the burgers brown evenly and develop that golden crust.

• Make Ahead Friendly: The burger mixture and the yogurt sauce can both be prepped a day ahead — perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

• Serving Idea: Serve these burgers over the salad, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or tucked into warm pita with extra lemon-dill yogurt for a handheld version.

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Easy Greek-Style Turkey Burgers – Ready in 30 Minutes

Fresh, flavorful Greek-Style Turkey Burgers with spinach, feta & tzatziki — a quick, 30-minute fall weeknight dinner bursting with Mediterranean comfort.

Easy Greek-Style Turkey Burgers – Ready in 30 Minutes

October is a busy month — between Halloween plans, football games, school nights, and fall activities, dinner needs to be easy, quick, and completely satisfying. That’s where these Easy Greek-Style Turkey Burgers come in.

In just 30 minutes, you can have juicy, golden-brown turkey patties infused with spinach, tangy feta, and fragrant oregano — all tucked into a warm bun and topped with cool, creamy tzatziki. Each bite delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavor that feels fresh and light, yet hearty enough for a chilly autumn evening.

No grill, no complicated prep — just simple ingredients, a hot skillet, and a little weeknight magic. Serve them with a side of roasted potatoes or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a dinner that’s as effortless as it is delicious.

Enjoy!

What You’ll Need to Make It

Simple ingredients come together to create a burger that’s fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Here’s what gives these Greek-style turkey burgers their signature taste:

• Ground Turkey – Lean and mild, the perfect base for soaking up Mediterranean herbs and feta without feeling heavy.

• Frozen Chopped Spinach – Adds color, nutrients, and moisture while keeping the patties tender.

• Feta Cheese – Salty, tangy, and rich — the flavor hero that makes every bite pop.

• Garlic Powder & Oregano – Classic Greek seasonings that bring warmth and depth.

• Salt & Pepper – Simple, essential seasonings to round out the flavor.

• Canola Oil – Helps sear the burgers for that crave-worthy golden crust.

• Tzatziki Sauce – Cool, creamy, and herby — the finishing touch that ties it all together.

• Whole-Wheat Buns – A wholesome base that complements the light, savory filling.

• Red Onion & Cucumber – Crisp and refreshing toppings that add crunch and brightness.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to make these burgers your own? Here are some easy swaps and twists that keep the Mediterranean flavors alive:

Substitutions

• Protein Swaps: Ground chicken – Lighter and mild, it cooks similarly and still pairs beautifully with spinach, feta, and oregano. Ground lamb – For a richer, more traditional Mediterranean flavor if you want a slightly indulgent twist.

• Cheese Options: Goat cheese – Tangy and creamy, either as a replacement or mixed with feta for extra flavor. Ricotta salata – Mild and slightly salty, adds a delicate texture without overpowering the burger.

• Bread & Base Alternatives: Whole wheat pita – Turn your burger into a gyro-style wrap for a fun change. Lettuce wraps – A low-carb option that’s crisp and fresh, pairing perfectly with tzatziki.

• Herb & Seasoning Variations: Fresh parsley or dill – Replace or supplement oregano for a brighter, herb-forward flavor. Smoked paprika or sumac – Adds subtle warmth or a hint of tang without straying from the Greek theme.

• Topping Twists: Roasted red peppers – Sweet, colorful, and perfectly Mediterranean. Kalamata olives – Briny and bold, a flavorful pop in every bite.

These simple swaps let you customize your burger while keeping it fast, easy, and packed with Greek-inspired flavor — perfect for a busy fall weeknight.

Switch It Up - Variations

Want to make these burgers your own? Here are a few easy ways to mix things up without losing that Greek flair:

• Mediterranean Chicken Burgers:
  Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken. It pairs beautifully with the same spinach, feta, and herbs — just as juicy, slightly lighter in flavor.

• Greek Burger Bowls:
  Skip the buns and serve the patties over a bed of greens with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of tzatziki or lemon vinaigrette for a fresh, lower-carb option.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Don’t overmix the meat. Combine the ingredients gently — overworking can make the burgers tough.

• Squeeze the spinach well. Removing excess water keeps the patties from becoming too soft or falling apart.

• Check for doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer — the center should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked turkey.

• Toast your buns. A quick toast in the same skillet adds texture and keeps them from getting soggy.

• Meal prep friendly. Cooked patties reheat beautifully in a skillet or air fryer — perfect for easy lunches or another busy weeknight.

Equipment You Will Need

You don’t need anything fancy — just a few reliable kitchen staples to make these burgers come together quickly and cook up perfectly golden.

Cast Iron Skillet - Ideal for creating that gorgeous, even sear while keeping the burgers juicy inside. This is one of the first one's that I ever bought.  It will last for generations.

Mixing Bowl – Medium-sized, for combining the turkey mixture without overworking the meat.

Spatula  – Helps flip the patties cleanly without breaking them. I like to use metal with my cast iron because of the high heat factor.

Measuring Spoons – For those key seasonings — oregano, garlic powder, and salt.

Instant-Read Thermometer – The foolproof way to ensure your turkey burgers reach 165°F for perfect doneness.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇