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Healthy Greek Turkey Meatballs - Bright, Fresh, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
  • 1/2 small yellow onion, finely grated (about 1/3 cup, squeezed of excess liquid)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or panko)
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus more for serving)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional but wonderful)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided; 1 for mixture, 1 for brushing)
  • Tzatziki or plain Greek yogurt with a squeeze of lemon
  • Lemon wedges
  • Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion
  • Warm pita or cooked quinoa/rice

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
  2. Grate the onion: Using the fine holes of a grater, grate the onion. Squeeze gently to remove excess moisture so the mixture isn’t wet.
  3. Mix the base: In a large bowl, add turkey, grated onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, feta, parsley, dill, mint (if using), oregano, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  4. Combine gently: Use a fork or your hands to mix just until combined. Don’t overwork the meat or it will get dense.
  5. Shape: Scoop about 2 tablespoons per meatball and roll lightly with damp hands. Place on the prepared pan, spacing evenly.
  6. Brush and bake: Brush the tops with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Bake 14–18 minutes, until the centers reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Optional broil: For color, broil 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Rest and serve: Let them rest 3–5 minutes. Serve with tzatziki or Greek yogurt, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides.