Juicy, spiced lamb meatballs meet a velvety lemon-garlic tahini sauce in this delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish. Whether served as a savory appetizer or a full-bodied main, these meatballs bring together bold, aromatic flavors with refreshing vegetables like cucumber and cherry tomatoes for balance. This dish is ideal for entertaining or elevating weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Mediterranean lamb meatballs are packed with robust, savory flavors from cumin, coriander, and paprika. The lamb stays moist and tender thanks to onion and parsley, while the creamy tahini sauce adds a tangy, nutty contrast that ties everything together. Easy to make in one skillet, the recipe is versatile, satisfying, and full of protein—perfect for low-carb or Mediterranean-style diets.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

Tahini Sauce:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin)
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, garlic, onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, searing until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes total.
4. While the meatballs cook, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt. Gradually add warm water until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
5. Drizzle the tahini sauce over the cooked meatballs. Garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve with cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes for a complete Mediterranean plate.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Beef or Turkey: Substitute ground lamb with ground beef or turkey for a lighter or more budget-friendly option.
• Herb-Heavy: Add fresh mint or dill for a more herbal flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes for heat.
• Yogurt Sauce: Swap tahini sauce with a Greek yogurt and lemon sauce for a tangier alternative.
• Grain Bowl: Serve meatballs over quinoa or couscous with roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooked meatballs and tahini sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat meatballs gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Stir the tahini sauce before serving and add a splash of water if it thickens too much in the fridge.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of lamb should I use for this recipe?

Ground lamb with a moderate fat content (around 15–20%) works best to keep the meatballs moist and flavorful.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of searing them?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes or until fully cooked, turning once for even browning.

Is there a substitute for tahini?

You can use a blend of Greek yogurt and olive oil or almond butter with lemon juice as a tahini alternative.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Avoid overmixing and be sure the mixture is moist but not wet. Chilling the meatballs briefly before cooking can help them hold together.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, shape and refrigerate the raw meatballs up to 24 hours in advance, or freeze them for longer storage.

What should I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with pita bread, couscous, tabbouleh, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check packaged tahini for any additives.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

Use less water and add a bit of Greek yogurt to the tahini sauce for a richer texture.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley?

Yes, use 2 teaspoons of dried parsley in place of 2 tablespoons of fresh.

Is this dish suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?

Yes, as long as you serve it without bread or starchy sides, this recipe fits well into a low-carb lifestyle.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Lamb Meatballs with Creamy Tahini Sauce offer a delicious combination of bold spices and creamy richness, perfect for a nourishing meal or elegant appetizer. With quick preparation, flexible variations, and storage-friendly components, this recipe is an excellent addition to your culinary rotation. Whether served with crisp vegetables or warm grains, these meatballs are sure to impress.

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