Greek Meatball 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 Meatball 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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The Viral Sheet Pan Turkey Kabobs You’ll Want Every Week

 

These viral Sheet Pan Turkey Kabobs deliver juicy, Greek-inspired flavor with minimal effort—seasoned ground turkey baked and broiled to perfection, served with fresh salad, feta, pita, and tzatziki. A fast, high-protein dinner you’ll want on repeat.

The Viral Sheet Pan Turkey Kabobs You’ll Want Every Week

If you’ve been on social media lately, you’ve probably seen these viral sheet pan kabobs popping up everywhere—and I knew I had to try them, especially with a husband who considers himself a koobideh connoisseur. Since we eat less red meat for health benefits, I decided to start with a ground turkey version first. A beef batch is definitely coming next, but for now, turkey felt like the perfect place to begin.

The flavor profile was very familiar —I know these spices well—but I was amazed at how incredibly easy the whole process was. Mix your ground meat mixture, press everything onto a sheet pan, score it into kabob strips, bake, broil, done. No skewers, no grill, no fuss. And the taste? Amazingly good for something that took barely any effort.

What really makes this recipe special is the sheet pan method itself. Kabobs can feel intimidating when you’re shaping and skewering loose ground meat, or trying to grill them just right. But this technique removes all the tricky parts while delivering the same juicy, flavorful result. It’s a total game changer—and the reason these viral kabobs are absolutely worth the hype.  My husband is ecstatic to know that we'll be eating koobideh style kabobs so much more often using this method!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Ground Turkey – Lean, mild, and perfect for soaking up bold spices.

• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic adds depth and that classic kabob aroma.

• Red Onion – Brings a little sweetness and texture to the mix.

• Fresh Parsley – Adds color, freshness, and a bright herbal flavor.

• Cumin – Warm and earthy; essential for that Middle Eastern kabob profile.

• Coriander – Light, citrusy spice that balances the deeper flavors.

• Paprika – Adds color and a mellow sweetness; smoked paprika also works.

• Garlic Powder – Boosts the savory notes and reinforces the fresh garlic.

• Kosher Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings that tie everything together.

• Cucumber & Tomatoes – The base of the fresh topping that keeps every bite bright.

• Olive Oil & Red Wine Vinegar – A quick splash creates a simple Greek-style salad.

• Tzatziki – Cool, creamy, and essential for that Greek-inspired wrap.

• Feta Cheese – Adds salty richness and tang.

• Fresh Mint – A refreshing pop that elevates the whole dish.

• Greek Pita Bread – Soft, warm pita makes this a handheld meal everyone loves.

Substitutions and Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

• Ground Turkey → Ground Chicken or Lean Beef – Works with any ground meat you prefer.

• Parsley → Cilantro or Fresh Mint – Swap in other fresh herbs for a different flavor profile.

• Red Onion → Yellow Onion or Shallots – Any mild onion will do.

• Tzatziki → Garlic Yogurt Sauce or Labneh – Still gives that creamy, tangy element.

• Red Wine Vinegar → Lemon Juice – Brightens the salad topping just as well.

• Pita → Naan or Lettuce Wraps – Great if you want a gluten-free or lower-carb option.

Variations

• Beef Koobideh-Style Version - Use ground beef and add a pinch of turmeric for a more Persian spin—rich, juicy, and packed with flavor.

• Mediterranean Bowl Version - Serve the kabobs over rice or quinoa with olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and extra herbs for a quick, customizable meal prep bowl.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

• Don’t Overmix the Meat – It keeps the kabobs tender instead of dense.

• Press the Meat into the Pan – You can press the meat the full width of the baking sheet but you don't have to go the entire length of the pan.  You want to keep a uniform thickness of about 1/2 - 3/4 inch.  This helps everything cook at the same rate.

• Score Before Baking – This makes separating the kabobs super easy after cooking.

• Use Broil for Char – The last 1–2 minutes under the broiler gives you that kabob-style finish.

• Don't break the kabobs! – Let the meat sit for 2–3 minutes so the juices settle then use a long spatula to lift them from the pan without breaking.

• Warm the Pitas – A quick toast or warm-up in foil makes a big difference in texture.

• Make Extra Salad Topping – It keeps well and adds freshness to leftovers.

• Meal Prep Friendly – Kabobs reheat beautifully and are great for lunch bowls.

• Double the Spice Mix – Save half for next time to streamline prep.

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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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Crispy Air-Fried Greek Tzatziki Chicken Sandwiches – Crunch Meets Creamy Cool

These Crispy Air-Fried Greek Tzatziki Chicken Sandwiches are the ultimate summer bite—juicy, golden chicken meets crunchy veggies and cool, creamy tzatziki. A healthy, flavor-packed air fryer recipe you’ll crave all season! 

Crispy Air-Fried Greek Tzatziki Chicken Sandwiches – Crunch Meets Creamy Cool

Some sandwiches are just... satisfying. The kind you bite into and instantly know you’ll be making again and again. These Crispy Air-Fried Greek Tzatziki Chicken Sandwiches are that kind of sandwich. With a golden, ultra-crunchy cornflake crust and a tender, juicy center (thanks, air fryer!), each bite is a flavor-packed celebration of summer. The cool, garlicky tzatziki and crisp cucumber-tomato salad bring just the right contrast—refreshing, tangy, and full of Mediterranean sunshine.  Want a bonus bite? Whip up extra cucumber and tomato mix to serve on the side—it makes a light and zesty salad.

As someone who can’t resist Greek flavors, this combo hits every note I love: herb-seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and that dreamy tzatziki drizzle. And the best part? It all comes together without turning on the oven. The air fryer makes this so easy—just press a button, flip once, and you’re rewarded with chicken that’s just as juicy and crispy as the deep-fried kind, but so much lighter.

Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch, need a weeknight dinner that feels a little special, or just want a sandwich that’s actually exciting, this one’s for you. Toast those buns, pile on the toppings, and prepare to fall in love with your new summer favorite.

Enjoy!

Equipment you may need

• Air Fryer - I use this one for the larger capacity and it's consistent even cooking. (It's on sale with prime right now!)

What Ingredients will I need?

Produce

• Cucumbers
• Cherry tomatoes

Meat & Dairy

• Chicken breasts
• Eggs
• Tzatziki or tzatziki salad dressing

Bakery

• Hamburger buns

Pantry

• Greek seasoning - I recently purchased this one and it is very good.  It's an herb blend and they use good clean ingredients.  This one is my standard Greek seasoning and is nice as well.  
• All-purpose flour
• Corn flakes
• Red wine vinegar
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Cooking spray

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Want to make this recipe with what you have on hand? Here are some easy ingredient substitutions to keep things flexible and delicious:

• Chicken breasts → Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option

• Corn flakes → Use panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed tortilla chips for a different kind of crunch.

• Tzatziki → Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice, garlic, dill, and cucumber makes a quick homemade version.

• Buns → Swap in pita, naan, or lettuce wraps for a lower-carb or Mediterranean-style twist.

• Red wine vinegar → White wine vinegar or lemon juice works great in a pinch.

Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious ways to customize your Tzatziki Chicken Sandwiches for different tastes, occasions, or dietary needs:

• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne to the cornflake coating or spread a layer of harissa or spicy hummus on the bun.

• Mediterranean Bowl Style – Skip the bun and serve the crispy chicken over a bed of greens, rice, or quinoa with the cucumber-tomato salad and tzatziki on top.

• Grilled Chicken Option – Skip the coating and air frying—just season and grill the chicken for a lighter, lower-carb version.

• Add Cheese – Feta crumbles or a slice of provolone or mozzarella can add a rich, creamy bite.

• Veggie Boost – Add baby spinach, arugula, or roasted red peppers to layer in even more flavor and color.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

A few helpful tips to make your Crispy Air-Fried Greek Tzatziki Chicken Sandwiches come out perfectly every time:

• Even Thickness = Even Cooking
  Lightly pounding the chicken ensures each piece cooks at the same rate—no dry edges or underdone centers.

• Crush Corn Flakes Finely
  Use a zip-top bag and rolling pin or pulse them briefly in a food processor. Finer crumbs help the coating stick better and give a more even crunch.

• Don’t Skip the Cooking Spray
  A light mist of cooking spray over the chicken helps the air fryer create that golden, crispy crust without any excess oil.

• Preheat the Air Fryer
  Just like an oven, a preheated air fryer gives you better texture and even browning right from the start.

• Toast the Buns
  A quick toast brings out flavor and keeps them from soaking up too much moisture from the tzatziki and veggies.

Bonus Tips

• How to Toast the Buns Like a Pro
  Lightly butter the cut sides of your sandwich buns and toast them in a hot skillet or grill pan over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp. This adds flavor and helps keep the bun from getting soggy once layered with juicy chicken and tzatziki.

• Storing Leftovers
  Store leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes to revive the crunch. Keep the cucumber-tomato salad and buns separate to maintain freshness and texture.

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