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Turkey Zucchini Meatballs with Lemony Yogurt Sauce

A delightful dish that balances flavor and nutrition, featuring ground turkey and zucchini meatballs served with a tangy yogurt sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Serving Size 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Lemony Yogurt Sauce

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2/3 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, pressed or finely minced

For the Meatballs

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sumac
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1 pound ground turkey (white or dark meat)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large zucchini, grated
  • 6 scallions sliced thin
  • 2 tablespoons chopped mint leaves
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro leaves
  • 2 large cloves garlic, pressed or finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • to taste Vegetable oil for sautéing

Instructions

Preparation

  • Combine all ingredients for the yogurt sauce in a bowl and set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated zucchini, scallions, egg, mint, cilantro, minced garlic, and spices.
  • Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 2 1/2 tablespoons each, and place them on a plate.

Cooking

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown half of the meatballs for about 4 minutes, then transfer them to the baking sheet. Add more oil to the skillet if needed, then repeat with the remaining meatballs.
  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 6-7 minutes until they are cooked through.

Serving

  • Serve warm with the lemony yogurt sauce drizzled on top.

Notes

For added flavor, let the meat mixture chill for about 30 minutes before shaping the meatballs. Be cautious not to overcook the meatballs to keep them juicy. You can experiment with different herbs or spices as per your taste.