If you’re craving something bursting with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors, you’ve got to try this Delicious Grilled Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki, Hummus, and Greek Salad Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of juicy, spiced meat kebabs paired with creamy tzatziki, rich hummus, and a refreshing Greek salad that brings a fresh crunch and zesty finish to every bite. The combination here is unbeatable and makes for a truly memorable meal that’s great for anything from family dinners to lively gatherings with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet crucial for creating the authentic taste, texture, and color that define this dish. Each one plays a role, from the aromatic spices to the fresh herbs, creating layers of flavor that come together beautifully.
- 2 pounds ground beef or lamb: Choose fresh quality meat for juicy, flavorful kebabs.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or shredded: Adds sweetness and moisture to balance the spices.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant punch essential in kofta seasoning.
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note to every bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped: Adds a cooling contrast to the spices and warmth of the meat.
- 1 tablespoon sumac: Gives a tangy brightness that livens up the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning that enhances all other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice: Introduces a warm, slightly sweet undertone.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Delivers earthy, nutty warmth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings color and a smoky twist that complements the grill.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle sweet spice that balances the savory elements.
- Tzatziki sauce: Creamy cucumber yogurt sauce to cool down each bite.
- Hummus: Rich and smooth, perfect for spreading or dipping.
- Greek salad: Crisp tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and onions dressed in olive oil.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Offers a tangy, salty finish that ties everything together.
- Warm pita bread: Ideal for wrapping your kebabs and accompaniments.
How to Make Delicious Grilled Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki, Hummus, and Greek Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley and mint. Add the warm spices—sumac, black pepper, salt, allspice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a sturdy spoon until the mixture is well combined and aromatic. This seasoning blend is what makes these kebabs irresistibly flavorful.
Step 2: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to shape. If you have extra time, letting it rest overnight deepens those savory tastes even more.
Step 3: Shape the Kebabs
With damp hands to prevent sticking, divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Take each portion and gently mold it around a skewer into a firm cylinder shape. The even size helps them cook uniformly on the grill or air fryer.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Prepare your grill by oiling the grates lightly so your kebabs won’t stick and preheat it to medium-high heat. This temperature is just right for cooking the meat without burning the outside before the inside cooks through.
Step 5: Grill the Kebabs
Place the skewered koftas onto the grill. Cook for roughly 5 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure all sides get that appealing char and browning. You want them juicy, with a subtle smoky hint from the grill grates.
Step 6: Air Fryer Alternative
If you prefer an indoor option or don’t have access to a grill, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Place a few kebabs in the basket, making sure they are not touching, then air fry for 7 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The result? Tender and nicely browned kebabs every time.
How to Serve Delicious Grilled Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki, Hummus, and Greek Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle the hot kebabs with crumbled feta cheese and extra fresh herbs like parsley or mint for an inviting visual and flavor boost. A dollop of cool tzatziki on top adds that creamy, refreshing contrast that makes every bite a delight.
Side Dishes
The classic Greek salad is a fantastic side that complements the richness of the kofta and the creamy hummus. Pita bread warmed just before serving is essential to scoop up the sauces and build perfect kebab wraps for a casual and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the kofta kebabs de-skewered on a large platter alongside bowls of tzatziki, hummus, and Greek salad. Invite guests to build their own pita wraps, letting everyone customize their plates with different combinations. It’s interactive, sociable, and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover cooked kofta kebabs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep nicely for 3 to 4 days, staying juicy and flavorful when properly stored.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, shape the raw kofta kebabs, freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the kebabs gently either in a 350°F oven wrapped loosely in foil or in an air fryer at a lower temperature. This ensures the meat stays moist and avoids drying out, bringing back that just-grilled taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef or lamb for the kofta?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be used, but you might want to add a bit of extra fat or moisture like olive oil or yogurt because these meats tend to be leaner. Adjust cooking times accordingly to make sure they’re cooked through.
What is sumac, and can I substitute it?
Sumac is a tangy, lemony Middle Eastern spice that brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice added to the mixture or a dash of lemon zest can mimic that slightly acidic punch.
How do I know when the kebabs are fully cooked?
The kebabs should be browned on all sides and no longer pink inside. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F for ground beef or lamb. If you don’t have a thermometer, cutting into one to check for clear juices is another good method.
Can I make the kofta mixture ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing the mixture a day in advance and letting it marinate refrigerated helps deepen the flavors and makes shaping easier as well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, absolutely. The kebabs themselves and the toppings like tzatziki, hummus, and Greek salad are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to choose gluten-free pita or omit the bread if you need to stay strictly gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve discovered how to make the Delicious Grilled Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki, Hummus, and Greek Salad Recipe, I hope you’re as excited as I am to get your grill fired up or your air fryer humming. This dish brings together such rich, fresh, and satisfying flavors that it quickly becomes a dinner favorite. Whether it’s for a weekend cookout or a cozy family meal, these kebabs deliver unbeatable taste and warmth. So don’t wait—grab those ingredients and enjoy every amazing bite!
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Delicious Grilled Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki, Hummus, and Greek Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This Kofta recipe features flavorful ground beef or lamb mixed with aromatic herbs and spices, shaped into skewered kebabs and cooked either on a grill or in an air fryer. Served with warm pita bread, creamy tzatziki sauce, hummus, Greek salad, and crumbled feta cheese, it makes a delicious and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef or ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped or shredded
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Serving
- Tzatziki sauce
- Hummus
- Greek salad
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Warm pita bread
Instructions
- Prepare Kofta Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, sumac, black pepper, salt, allspice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until well combined to evenly distribute the herbs and spices.
- Chill Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to shape.
- Shape Kebabs: With damp hands, take about ½ cup of the kofta mixture and form it into a cylindrical shape around a skewer. Repeat this step until all the mixture is used.
- Preheat Grill: Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and heat the grill to medium-high.
- Grill Kebabs: Place the kofta kebabs on the grill and cook for approximately 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are evenly browned on all sides and cooked through.
- Preheat Air Fryer: If using an air fryer, preheat it to 380°F (195°C) for optimal cooking temperature.
- Air Fry Kebabs: Place a few kebabs in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry for 7-8 minutes, shaking or turning the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Serve: Remove the cooked kofta kebabs from the heat and serve hot on warm pita bread accompanied by tzatziki sauce, hummus, Greek salad, and crumbled feta cheese for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
Notes
- You can substitute lamb with ground beef or a mixture of both according to preference.
- Letting the kofta mixture rest in the refrigerator enhances flavor and firmness for shaping.
- Skewers can be soaked in water for 30 minutes beforehand if using wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preference.
- If you don’t have a grill or air fryer, you can cook the koftas in a skillet over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning regularly.
