Turkey Tzatziki Meatball Pitas: A Protein-Packed Delight

Looking for a high-protein, flavorful, and satisfying meal? These Turkey Tzatziki Meatball Pitas are a game-changer! This dish combines juicy turkey meatballs, creamy tzatziki sauce, and tangy pickled onions, all wrapped in a warm, homemade pita. The fresh tomato-zucchini salsa adds a refreshing crunch, making it perfect for meal prep, post-gym recovery, or an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients List (What You Need)

For the Turkey Meatballs:

• 1 lb Ground Turkey
• 1/3 cup Red Onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Seasoned Breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup Cottage Cheese
• 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 Egg
• Seasonings: Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Peruvian Seasoning (Whole Foods 365), Red Pepper Flakes, Cayenne, Salt, Pepper, Parsley

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
• 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 Lemon
• Juice of 1/2 Lemon
• 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
• Seasonings: Fresh Dill, Salt, Pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup finely grated Cucumber

For the Pickled Red Onions (Cold Method):

• 1/2 Red Onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup White Wine Vinegar
• 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Sugar

For the Pita Bread:

• 1 cup Bread Flour (adjust as needed for consistency)
• 1 cup Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt
• 3 tsp Baking Powder
• Seasonings: Garlic Powder, Salt
• Optional: Parsley for topping

Additional Toppings:

• Grape Tomatoes, halved
• Chopped Zucchini
• Chopped Red Onion
• Squeeze of Lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Turkey Meatballs:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, red onion, breadcrumbs, cottage cheese, garlic, egg, and seasonings. Mix well.
3. Form into small meatballs.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat with avocado oil. Sear meatballs on all sides until golden brown.
5. Transfer meatballs to a sheet pan and bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 15-20 minutes).

Making the Tzatziki Sauce:

1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Mix in fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Optional: Add finely grated cucumber for extra texture.

Pickling the Red Onions (Cold Method):

1. Place thinly sliced red onions in a glass jar or airtight container.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged.
4. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best results).

Making the Pita Bread:

1. In a bowl, mix together flour, Greek yogurt, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Knead the dough until smooth, adding flour if too sticky.
3. Divide into 4 equal portions and roll each into a round shape.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook each pita until golden brown on one side, then flip when bubbles start forming.

Assembly & Final Touches

1. Spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce over a warm pita.
2. Add turkey meatballs on top.
3. Sprinkle with grape tomatoes, zucchini, and red onions.
4. Top with pickled red onions for extra zing.
5. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Pro Tips:

• Meal Prep Friendly: These turkey meatballs store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully.
• Boosting Flavor: For extra juiciness, use 85/15 ground turkey instead of extra lean.
• Pita Hack: Store-bought pita works, but homemade takes this dish to another level.
• Spice It Up: Love heat? Add harissa or sriracha for an extra kick.

This dish is the perfect balance of lean protein, fresh veggies, and bold Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re meal-prepping or enjoying a casual dinner, these Turkey Tzatziki Meatball Pitas are sure to be a hit!

About the Creator

This delicious recipe was created by @laurrynashley! Follow her on Instagram for more incredible recipes and food inspiration.

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