Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce & Salad

Name: Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Yogurt Sauce & Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground lamb; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying); For the Yogurt Sauce:; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh dill or mint, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; For the Salad:; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, chopped; 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste

September 29, 2025 by Olivia

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Juicy lamb meatballs seasoned with garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs are served with a tangy yogurt sauce and crisp Mediterranean salad. This dish is a balance of savory, fresh, and creamy flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. The meatballs can be pan-fried or baked, and the yogurt sauce brings everything together with a cooling, tangy finish.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground lamb
1 small onion, finely grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp parsley, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Yogurt Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Salad:
1 cucumber, diced
2 tomatoes, diced
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

In a bowl, mix lamb, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper until well combined. Shape into small meatballs.
Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook meatballs 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. (Alternatively, bake at 400°F/200°C for 18 minutes.)
In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper for the sauce.
Toss cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the salad.
Serve meatballs with yogurt sauce and fresh salad on the side.

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of lamb? Yes, though lamb gives a richer flavor.
Can I make the meatballs in advance? Yes, store raw meatballs in the fridge up to 24 hours.
How do I freeze meatballs? Freeze raw or cooked meatballs up to 3 months.
Can I grill them? Yes, grill over medium heat until cooked through.
What can I serve them with? Pita bread, couscous, or rice pair well.
Can I lighten the sauce? Use low-fat Greek yogurt.
Can I make it spicier? Add chili flakes or harissa to the meat mixture.
How long does the salad last? Best eaten fresh, but can keep 1 day refrigerated.

Conclusion

Mediterranean lamb meatballs with yogurt sauce and salad offer a flavorful and balanced meal. The savory lamb, creamy yogurt, and fresh vegetables create a satisfying dish that’s both hearty and refreshing.