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Healthy Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs Recipe

Healthy Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs

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Transport your dinner table to the Mediterranean with these succulent, herb-infused lamb meatballs. By incorporating Greek yogurt into the mixture, we achieve an incredible level of moisture and tenderness that standard recipes often miss. This aromatic, one-skillet dish is designed for busy households, delivering a gourmet experience in under 20 minutes without any complicated prep or lengthy cleanup. Perfectly seasoned with cumin, garlic, and fresh cilantro, these meatballs serve as a vibrant, healthy, and high-protein anchor for any weeknight meal.

  • Total Time: 20
  • Yield: 16 meatballs

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground lamb (85/15 fat ratio)
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 0.25 cup water (for steaming)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, cumin, and fresh cilantro until well-distributed.
  2. Use a 1.5-tablespoon scoop to measure out uniform portions onto a clean plate, aiming for approximately 16 meatballs.
  3. Wet your hands slightly with cool water and roll each portion into a smooth, round ball.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until fragrant and shimmering.
  5. Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
  6. Cook while turning frequently for about 5 minutes until a deep, golden brown crust forms.
  7. Lower the heat and carefully pour 0.25 cup of water into the skillet.
  8. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and steam for 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through.
  9. Remove from the skillet with a slotted spoon and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Ensure your hands are damp when rolling to prevent the meat mixture from sticking.
  • Keep the meatballs in a single layer in the pan to ensure an even, consistent sear.
  • If the oil begins to smoke during the initial sear, reduce heat slightly before adding the water.
  • Author: Natalie
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Category: Ground Lamb
  • Method: Pan-searing and Steaming
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean