Greek Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: With ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, these bowls bring a refreshing burst of flavor, balanced by the creamy tang of tzatziki sauce.

• Customizable: Easily adjust the toppings or protein to suit your preferences. Add grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

• Balanced Meal: The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies makes this a nutrient-dense meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or meal prep.

• Versatile: Perfect for lunch or dinner and works well as a light and healthy meal option for any time of day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas (for a vegetarian version)

• Cooked quinoa, brown rice, or couscous (or greens like lettuce or spinach)

• Cucumber, sliced

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Red onion, thinly sliced

• Kalamata olives, pitted

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

• Lemon wedges (for garnish)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• Greek yogurt

• Cucumber, grated

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh dill, chopped

• Lemon juice

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Protein: If using chicken or lamb, season with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, then grill or cook in a skillet until fully cooked. For a vegetarian version, use grilled or roasted chickpeas seasoned with olive oil and Mediterranean spices.

2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

3. Assemble the Bowls: Start by adding a base of quinoa, rice, couscous, or greens to each bowl. Top with your protein of choice (chicken, lamb, or chickpeas).

4. Add Fresh Veggies: Arrange cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives around the bowl. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.

5. Serve and Garnish: Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the bowl and garnish with a wedge of lemon. Serve immediately or store for meal prep.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on protein choice)

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use chickpeas, roasted vegetables, or falafel in place of meat for a vegetarian or vegan version.

• Swap the Grain: Instead of quinoa or rice, try cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, or use bulgur for a more traditional Mediterranean feel.

• Extra Veggies: Add additional vegetables like bell peppers, shredded carrots, or roasted eggplant for more texture and flavor.

• Sauce Alternatives: Use hummus or a tahini sauce instead of tzatziki for a different Mediterranean twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki sauce separate if possible to prevent sogginess.

• Reheating: If storing with grains, reheat the protein and grains separately in the microwave or on the stovetop. Tzatziki sauce should be served cold and fresh.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the components (grains, protein, veggies, and tzatziki sauce) in advance and store them separately. Assemble the bowls when ready to eat.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought tzatziki is a great alternative. Just be sure to check the ingredients for quality.

How can I add more flavor to the chicken or lamb?

Marinate the chicken or lamb in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like oregano or thyme for a few hours before cooking to enhance the flavor.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for tzatziki?

Yes, Greek yogurt is the traditional base for tzatziki sauce and gives it that creamy texture. Sour cream is not typically used, but you could substitute it for a similar consistency.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially when you use quinoa, rice, or greens as your base. Just make sure to double-check any pre-cooked grains for gluten.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili to the tzatziki sauce or sprinkle some hot sauce over the bowl for a spicy kick.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is great on its own but can be served with warm pita bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a more filling meal.

How can I make this dish low-carb?

Swap the grains for cauliflower rice or lettuce for a lighter, low-carb version. The tzatziki sauce is already low in carbs, making it a great choice for a low-carb diet.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! You can use grilled shrimp, turkey, or falafel to suit your dietary preferences.

How long will the tzatziki sauce last?

Tzatziki sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Greek Bowls with Tzatziki Sauce are a fresh, vibrant, and customizable meal that brings Mediterranean flavors right to your plate. Perfect for a light dinner, meal prep, or a healthy lunch, these bowls are both nutritious and packed with flavor. With endless variations and the creamy tang of homemade tzatziki sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.