Go Back
Plate of Greek Turkey Meatballs served with Lemon Herb Rice

Greek Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Herb Rice

A vibrant dish that combines juicy turkey meatballs with zesty lemon herb rice, transforming ordinary ingredients into a flavorful meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Turkey Can substitute with ground chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs work for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for dairy-free.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped Can swap with fresh dill.
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Integral ingredient; no substitutes.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Italian seasoning is a good alternative.
  • 1 tsp Salt Use sea salt for a gourmet touch.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Season to taste.
  • 1 large Egg Binds meatballs; can substitute with chia or flax eggs for vegan.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Canola oil is acceptable if preferred.
For the Rice
  • 1 cup Long-Grain Rice Brown rice is a hearty substitute.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth serves vegetarian preferences.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Fresh citrus is essential.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill, chopped Can substitute with fresh mint.

Method
 

Meatball Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and egg. Form the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs.
Cooking Meatballs
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on each side, ensuring they cook through.
Rice Preparation
  1. In a separate pot, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Cooking Rice
  1. In a saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Finalizing Rice
  1. When the rice is fluffy, stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh dill for a vibrant finish.
Serving
  1. Place the meatballs atop the lemon herb rice and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Make meatballs ahead of time and freeze for quick weeknight dinners. Double the recipe for leftovers that reheat beautifully.