Turkey Meatballs Tzatziki Zuchini Noodles

Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki and Zucchini Noodles

Name: Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki and Zucchini Noodles
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: Greek-inspired
Ingredients: 8 oz lean ground turkey; 2 tbsp almond flour; 1 small egg; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; 2 medium zucchini; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (0% fat); 1/4 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil

Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki and Zucchini Noodles

Yield: 2 Servings | Prep Time: 25 min | Cook Time: 20 min

Bariatric & Diabetic Approved

Dietary Concerns: This recipe is gluten-free, low-carb, and high-protein. It's specifically designed for bariatric patients. Almond flour is used instead of breadcrumbs to keep the carb content low. Always check individual ingredient labels for specific dietary needs or allergies.

These Greek-Style Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki and Zucchini Noodles offer a delicious and nutritious meal option for bariatric patients. High in lean protein and low in carbs, this dish supports dietary needs after weight loss surgery while delivering satisfying Mediterranean flavors. The combo of protein-rich meatballs, low-carb veggie "pasta," and a creamy yogurt-based sauce provides a balanced, filling meal without too many calories.

Friendly Advice: When preparing the meatballs, mix and shape them gently to keep them tender. If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more almond flour. For easier digestion, make sure to cut the zucchini into thin noodles and cook them until just tender.

Benefits for Bariatric Patients

High Protein Content: With 35g of protein per serving, this meal helps meet post-surgery protein needs and supports muscle maintenance.
Low Carbohydrate: Only 12g of carbs per serving supports continued weight loss after bariatric surgery.
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Turkey, zucchini, and Greek yogurt provide essential vitamins and minerals without excess calories.
Portion Control: The recipe is portioned for bariatric needs, making it easy to control intake.
Easy to Digest: Lean ground turkey and well-cooked zucchini noodles are typically well-tolerated after surgery.
Balanced Flavors: The combination of herbs, feta, and tzatziki provides satisfying flavors without added sugars or unhealthy fats.

Ingredients

8 oz lean ground turkey
2 tbsp almond flour
1 small egg
1 clove garlic, minced (divided use)
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 medium zucchini
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (0% fat)
1/4 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Prepare Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground turkey, almond flour, egg, half the minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and feta cheese. Mix gently and form into 8 small meatballs.
Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Prepare Zucchini Noodles: While meatballs are cooking, spiralize zucchini into noodles.
Make Tzatziki: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, remaining garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
Cook Zucchini Noodles: Once meatballs are done, set them aside and cover to keep warm. In the same skillet, lightly sauté zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
Serve: Divide zucchini noodles between two plates, top with meatballs, and serve with tzatziki sauce on the side.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories	320
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	15g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	5g

Tips and Additional Info

Portion Control: This recipe makes 2 servings. Adjust your portion size based on your surgeon's or dietitian's recommendations and your stage of post-surgery diet.
Veggie Variations: You can substitute zucchini noodles with other low-carb vegetables like spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice.
Protein Options: If turkey isn't available, lean ground chicken can be used as an alternative.
Serving Ideas: For added nutrients, consider serving with a small side of cherry tomatoes or a few Kalamata olives.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
Meal Prep: You can prepare the meatballs and tzatziki sauce in advance. Just cook the zucchini noodles fresh when you're ready to eat.