Gyro Bowls (Meatballs with Tzatziki, Lemon Rice, and Cucumber Salad)

Mediterranean cuisine has taken the culinary world by storm, celebrated for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and health benefits. The Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables, has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers across the globe. Among the stars of this culinary tradition is the gyro, a beloved dish that embodies the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Today, we’re elevating this classic into a modern meal that you can enjoy any day of the week: Savory Gyro Bowls.

Gyro Bowls (Meatballs with Tzatziki, Lemon Rice, and Cucumber Salad)

Embark on a flavorful journey into Mediterranean cuisine with Savory Gyro Bowls! This delightful dish combines perfectly seasoned meatballs, refreshing tzatziki, zesty lemon rice, and fresh veggies for a balanced meal that's both satisfying and customizable. Enjoy the benefits of fresh ingredients and the versatility of this recipe, whether you prefer traditional lamb, beef, or a plant-based option. Perfect for any day of the week, these gyro bowls bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground lamb (or beef)

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 cucumber, peeled and grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Rice:

1 cup basmati rice

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt to taste

For the Cucumber Salad:

1 large cucumber, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs:

- In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

- Form the mixture into small meatballs (about the size of a golf ball) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce:

- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until needed.

Cook the Lemon Rice:

- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

- Fluff with a fork before serving.

Prepare the Cucumber Salad:

- In a large bowl, mix together the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.

- Toss to coat evenly, then let it sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.

Assemble the Gyro Bowls:

- In each bowl, start with a generous scoop of lemon rice as the base.

- Arrange a few meatballs on top, add a dollop of tzatziki, and finish with a scoop of cucumber salad.

- Enjoy your delicious and hearty gyro bowls!

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4