Introduction
Mediterranean pita sandwiches filled with chicken meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that transport you straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. These pockets of goodness are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for a casual lunch or a festive dinner. Each bite is bursting with fresh ingredients, from crispy cucumbers to creamy feta, and is balanced perfectly with the seasoned chicken meatballs. Let’s dive into the ingredients and prepare a meal that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup diced or grated cucumber
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. dried dill
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
Freshly cracked black pepper
2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. dijon mustard
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. sea salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
2 cups diced cucumbers (Persian or English so you can leave peel on)
2 cups diced tomatoes (use a roma for easy chopping)
4 oz. feta cheese (diced)
1/3 cup kalamata olives (roughly chopped)
1/4 cup fresh dill (chopped)
1 package Jones Dairy Farm Chicken Meatballs
4 fresh pita bread pockets, cut in half (so you have 8 halves)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Makes 4 servings
Instructions
Start by preparing the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, olive oil, dried dill, garlic salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Next, prepare your ingredients. Dice the cucumbers and tomatoes, and chop the feta cheese, olives, and fresh dill.
Now it’s time to make the salad. In a medium bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper until well emulsified. Add the cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives into the bowl and gently mix. Finally, sprinkle fresh dill over the top.
Prepare the chicken meatballs according to the package instructions. While the meatballs are heating, warm the pita bread either in a 350-degree F oven or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for about 15 seconds until warmed through.
Assemble your pita pockets by spreading a layer of tzatziki sauce inside each pita, followed by a spoonful of the Greek salad mixture. Add a few chicken meatballs and top with more salad and tzatziki sauce if desired. Enjoy your Mediterranean pita sandwiches filled with flavorful chicken meatballs!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Mix Tzatziki Sauce
Combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of diced or grated cucumber, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried dill, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt, and freshly cracked black pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir until well combined. Set aside.
Prepare Ingredients
Dice cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese. Roughly chop the kalamata olives and fresh dill.
Make Greek Salad Dressing
In a medium bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is emulsified.
Add Vegetables to Salad
Add the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and chopped olives to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the mixture together and sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the top.
Prepare Meatballs
Cook the chicken meatballs according to the package instructions provided.
Warm Pita Bread
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Alternatively, you can wrap the pita bread in a damp paper towel and heat in the microwave on high for 15 seconds, or until warm.
Assemble Pita Pockets
Spread a layer of tzatziki sauce inside each pita bread pocket. Add a spoonful of the Greek salad mixture. Place a few meatballs inside and top with extra salad and tzatziki sauce, if desired.
Notes
Choosing Ingredients
For the cucumbers, Persian or English varieties work well as their skins can be left on for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
These pita sandwiches make an excellent lunch or light dinner and can be served with additional sides such as chips or a green salad.
Storage Tips
Leftover tzatziki sauce and salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the pita pockets fresh when ready to eat for the best texture.
Cook techniques
Making Tzatziki Sauce
Combine Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, olive oil, dried dill, garlic salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld.
Preparing Ingredients
Dice cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese into uniform pieces. Roughly chop kalamata olives and fresh dill to enhance the overall texture and flavor of the dish.
Making the Salad
In a medium bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, olive oil, dijon mustard, oregano, sea salt, and black pepper until emulsified. Add the diced vegetables and mix gently, topping with fresh dill for extra flavor.
Cooking Chicken Meatballs
Prepare chicken meatballs according to package instructions until thoroughly cooked and heated through, ensuring they are juicy and flavorful.
Warming the Pita Bread
Heat pita pockets in a 350-degree F oven or microwave for 15 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel, making them soft and pliable for filling.
Assembling Pita Pockets
Spread a layer of tzatziki sauce inside each warmed pita. Fill with a spoonful of Greek salad, add a few meatballs, and top with extra salad and tzatziki if desired for a balanced meal.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meatballs in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to use any type of cooked meatballs that suit your taste, including beef or turkey.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce?
You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer a different base.
What type of cucumber is best for this recipe?
Persian or English cucumbers are recommended, as they have a thinner skin and fewer seeds, making them great for salads.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, the salad can be made in advance but is best served fresh. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until ready to use.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the chicken meatballs and consider adding grilled vegetables or chickpeas for additional protein.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Pita Sandwiches with Chicken Meatballs offer a deliciously fresh and satisfying meal option that is both easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors. The combination of homemade tzatziki, a colorful Greek salad, and savory chicken meatballs tucked into warm pita pockets creates a delightful Mediterranean experience. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these sandwiches not only cater to your taste buds but also provide a healthy balance of ingredients.
Greek Turkey Meatball Pita Sandwiches
Swap chicken meatballs for turkey meatballs, and follow the same preparation method for a leaner protein that pairs wonderfully with tzatziki.
Falafel Pita Sandwiches
For a vegetarian option, replace the meatballs with crispy falafel patties and top with the same Greek salad and tzatziki sauce for a satisfying meal.
Spicy Chicken Pita Sandwiches
Add some heat by mixing sriracha or harissa into the tzatziki sauce and use spicy chicken meatballs for an exciting twist.
Roasted Vegetable Pita Sandwiches
Stuff the pita with a mix of roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, along with tzatziki for a hearty vegetarian option.
Grilled Shrimp Pita Sandwiches
Replace meatballs with marinated and grilled shrimp for a seafood version that stays true to Mediterranean flavors, complemented by the refreshing salad.
Quinoa and Black Bean Pita Sandwiches
For a filling yet healthy sandwich, mix cooked quinoa and black beans with the salad ingredients and stuffed into pita for a plant-based delight.