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Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki

Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki for Healthier Nights

Enjoy Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki, a wholesome and delicious plant-based option perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 cup Green Lentils or substitute with chickpeas
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil extra virgin recommended
  • 1 Onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 2 Eggs or flax eggs for a vegan option
  • ¼ cup Parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Tzatziki
  • 1 cup Yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
  • 1 medium Cucumber grated and well-drained
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Dill optional, fresh mint can be a substitute

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Rinse green lentils under cold water. Combine with 3 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil; then simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain excess water and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté chopped onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic for an additional 1-2 minutes, then cool the mixture.
  3. In a large bowl, mix cooked lentils, the onion and garlic mixture, panko breadcrumbs, beaten eggs (or flax eggs), chopped parsley, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a greased baking sheet.
  5. Bake meatballs for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
  6. For tzatziki, mix yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir in dill if desired until smooth.
  7. Serve the meatballs drizzled with tzatziki, alongside warm pita or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 7gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness. Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

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