Mediterranean Meatballs

Step 1

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek Yogurt
• ¼ grated English Cucumber
• 1 teaspoon freshly minced garlic
• 1 Tablespoon fresh dill
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• Mix in 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Stir to combine all the ingredients. Cover and chill for about an hour to let the flavors blend.

Step 2

Prepare Meatballs

Preheat oven to 425.

In a large bowl, combine the following:

• 1 pound of ground chuck or ground lamb

(I have used both but prefer the lamb)

• ¼ cup dry Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1 Tablespoon freshly minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Mix well to combine and then form into meatballs. You might want to use a medium size scoop or an 1/8 cup measuring cup to get them in uniform size. Roll into balls and place on a slightly greased pan. Bake in oven for 10 minutes or until cooked all the way. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your meatballs.

Step 3

Prepare the Vegetables

While the meatballs are cooking, dice and stir together the following:

• 1 Cup English cucumber
• 1 Cup Roma tomatoes
• ½ Cup red onion
• 1 Tablespoon flat leaf parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 4

Assemble the Gyro

On medium heat and add a little olive oil to the pan. Warm the pita bread or flat bread on both sides. Remove and place on a plate. Place 3-4 meatballs down the center, depending on break size and meatball size. Spoon some of the prepared vegetable mixture and drizzle with Tzatziki sauce. You may also like to add pitted Greek olives and feta cheese to your Gyro.