Name: Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491374H26M5S
Total time: PT-491374H26M5S
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups cooked brown lentils (can use canned); 1/2 red onion – finely chopped; 3/4 cup bread crumbs (gluten free if needed); 1/4 cup fresh chopped mint; 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 egg; 1/2-1 teaspoon salt; Black pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; Juice from 1/2 lemon; 1/2 cup yogurt; 1/4 cup shredded cucumber; Juice from 1/2 lemon; Pinch salt; Pinch black pepper; 1 garlic clove – minced; 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill; Vegetables of choice; Cooked grain of choice

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If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both hearty and bursting with Mediterranean freshness, the Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These meatless marvels bring together wholesome brown lentils, vibrant fresh herbs, and warm spices, all baked to perfection and paired with a cooling, tangy tzatziki sauce. Easy to prepare yet impressive in flavor, this recipe offers satisfying plant-based protein with the bright, fresh notes that only Greek cuisine can deliver. Get ready to fall in love with a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up view inside a blender jar filled with a coarse mixture, featuring multiple layers of finely chopped ingredients. The mixture contains green leafy bits, likely cilantro or parsley, dispersed evenly throughout. There are small pieces of white onion and purple-red bits, which appear to be red onion, creating a colorful texture. The overall color varies from light tan to dark brown, with a moist and chunky consistency. The metal blender blades are at the center, partially submerged under the mixture. The jar is transparent plastic with a white marbled surface background barely visible outside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating these Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe is surprisingly straightforward because each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that unmistakable Greek charm. From earthy lentils to aromatic herbs and spices, every component works in harmony to make these meatballs truly special.

1 1/2 cups cooked brown lentils: Provides the hearty base and rich, nutty flavor essential for a satisfying bite.
1/2 red onion, finely chopped: Adds a mild sweetness and subtle crunch for texture contrast.
3/4 cup bread crumbs (gluten free if needed): Acts as a binder, giving the meatballs structure without weighing them down.
1/4 cup fresh chopped mint: Offers a bright, refreshing herbal lift that’s signature to Greek dishes.
1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley: Contributes earthy fragrance and gorgeous green flecks throughout the meatballs.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Brings depth with subtle acidity and rich color to the mix.
1 egg: Works as a natural binder, helping everything hold together while baking.
1/2-1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the savory notes.
Black pepper to taste: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Introduces smokiness and warmth that elevates the overall profile.
1/2 teaspoon oregano: Infuses that unmistakable Mediterranean earthiness.
1 teaspoon soy sauce: Boosts umami richness without overpowering other ingredients.
Juice from 1/2 lemon: Injects a fresh burst of brightness, balancing the savory elements.
For the tzatziki sauce: 1/2 cup yogurt, 1/4 cup shredded cucumber, juice from 1/2 lemon, pinch of salt, pinch of black pepper, 1 garlic clove minced, and 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill.
Optional sides: Your favorite veggies and cooked grains to round out the meal.

How to Make Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s hot and ready to bake the meatballs to a beautiful golden finish. This higher temperature helps the edges crisp up while keeping the inside tender and moist.

Step 2: Combine Meatball Ingredients

In a food processor, add the cooked brown lentils, finely chopped red onion, bread crumbs, fresh mint and parsley, tomato paste, egg, salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Pulse gently—your goal is to bind everything together without pureeing it into a paste. You want some texture to remain, so those lentils still have a bit of bite.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about the size of a walnut, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step is relaxing and rewarding – plus, uniform size means even baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll notice the meatballs turn golden on the outside and hold their shape beautifully, developing that irresistible lightly crisp crust.

Step 5: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While your meatballs are baking, whisk together the creamy yogurt, shredded cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This cooling sauce will be the perfect companion, balancing the warm, spiced flavors of the meatballs with its fresh tang.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, serve your Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with a generous dollop of the homemade tzatziki and your favorite sides. This is where the magic happens—the contrasting temperatures, textures, and flavors combine in every bite.

How to Serve Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe

The image shows several round, uncooked falafel balls placed evenly on parchment paper. Each ball has a rough texture with visible small bits of green herbs, dark lentils, and tiny pieces of red onion mixed into the light brown dough. They are spaced apart, casting soft shadows on the parchment paper which lies on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your meatball dish instantly. Sprinkle some additional chopped mint or parsley over the top for color and fresh aroma. A drizzle of olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side adds a bright finishing touch that makes serving feel special yet effortless.

Side Dishes

Complement these meatballs with vibrant sides to create a well-rounded plate. Think roasted vegetables like zucchini, red peppers, or cherry tomatoes, or a vibrant Greek salad bursting with feta and olives. For more substance, a bed of fluffy couscous, quinoa, or brown rice adds heartiness and soaks up any extra tzatziki.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Serve the meatballs on skewers paired with grilled veggies for a Mediterranean-style kebab platter. Alternatively, tuck them into warm pita bread drizzled with tzatziki and topped with fresh greens for a handheld, casual meal that’s bursting with flavor. Even a vibrant mezze-style spread with hummus, olives, and fresh bread turns this dish into a festive feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be a tall order!), store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki sauce separate to maintain its fresh, creamy texture.

Freezing

These meatballs freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen meatballs will keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for quick meals on busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, place the meatballs on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350-degree oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful texture intact. Reheat the tzatziki sauce separately and serve chilled for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of cooking them from scratch?

Absolutely! Using canned lentils is a fantastic time-saver. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well before adding to the mixture to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of your meatballs.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

The Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe uses an egg and yogurt, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you can substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg and choose a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a vegan twist that still tastes amazing.

Can I make these meatballs gluten free?

Yes, just swap regular bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs, and the recipe will work perfectly. The binding and flavor remain just as delicious without the gluten.

How spicy are these meatballs?

They have a gentle warmth from paprika and black pepper but are not spicy-hot. You can always adjust seasoning to your taste by adding a pinch of chili flakes if you like things with a bit more kick.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?

Fresh herbs are key to that bright, authentic flavor in this recipe, but if you’re out, dried herbs can be used sparingly—about one-third of the fresh amount. The meatballs will still be tasty but slightly less fragrant.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about serving a dish that feels nourishing and exciting all at once, and the Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs with Tzatziki Recipe fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers wholesome ingredients transformed into an unforgettable meal with minimal fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and share in the joy of flavors that bring a little Greek sunshine to your table.