Keftedes (Greek Meatballs) and Tzatziki

Although I visited Greece a few years ago, I mostly enjoyed pasta dishes, so  I never really experienced the unique seasonings that go into Greek style meats. Even still, I have missed the flavors and spices of Greece, and decided to concoct a meal reminiscent of my travels.

You can read all about my trip to Greece here:

A Week in Santorini

Santorini, Greece - Oia & a Wine Tasting

Santorini, Greece - Cliff Climbing & Ruins

This post is about my attempt at Greek style meatballs with tzatziki sauce.

Traditionally these would be made with lamb but I was unable to find that in my area so I settled for a mix of pork and beef with specific seasoning.  In spite of the simplicity of the dish, it reminds me of my time in Santorini.

Greek Meatballs
Serves 4

Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 lg red onion grated
3 cloves garlic grated
¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
Juice from one lemon
¼ cup fresh mint
1 egg
¼ cup bread crumbs
Salt
Pepper

Mix all ingredients together, then refrigerate for 2 hours to stiffen (this will help make the meatballs easier to roll and give the flavors time to meld together.
Roll into golf ball size balls.

Cook in pan with olive oil at medium to high heat until crispy outer edge. (You could also bake these, but I prefer the crispier texture of a panfried meatball.)

Serve with Tzatziki for dipping.

Tzatziki
Makes 3 cups

Ingredients
3 cups full fat Greek yogurt
4 garlic cloves minced
1 cup cucumber seeded and grated
1 tbs FRESH dill, chopped
Juice from 1 lemon
1 tbs olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together and serve or refrigerate for up to 2 days.  This is wonderful as a dip, or drizzled into a pita sandwich.

Eat, while dreaming of  sunny Santorini!