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Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with our delightful Greek Lamb Koftas paired with a refreshing Greek Salad. This recipe is a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, combining aromatic lamb koftas with the vibrant and zesty Greek salad. It’s a match made in culinary heaven, and we’re here to guide you through every step of creating this mouthwatering dish.
Greek Lamb Koftas with Fresh Greek Salad is a delectable dish that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Koftas, a popular Middle Eastern and South Asian dish, have a long and diverse history. They can be made from various meats, vegetables, or legumes and are often seasoned with an array of spices.
The origins of koftas can be traced back to the Middle East and South Asia, where they were initially created as a way to make meat more tender and flavorful. Over time, koftas spread to different regions and evolved to incorporate local ingredients and cooking techniques.
In Greek cuisine, lamb is a favored meat choice for koftas due to its rich and robust flavor. The addition of aromatic herbs and spices, such as mint, oregano, and cumin, enhances the taste and aroma of the dish. The fresh Greek salad, typically consisting of tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and feta cheese, adds a refreshing and tangy contrast to the savory koftas.
This dish has become a beloved part of Greek cuisine, often enjoyed in the company of family and friends during gatherings and celebrations. It embodies the essence of Mediterranean cooking, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bold, harmonious flavors.
Greek Lamb Koftas with Fresh Greek Salad
Greek Lamb Koftas are succulent, spiced lamb patties that are grilled to perfection. They are traditionally served with a side of Greek Salad, a colorful combination of fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, drizzled with a tangy dressing. Together, they create a balanced and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl: Buy On Amazon
- Skewers (if grilling): Buy On Amazon
- Grill or stovetop pan: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Knife and cutting board: Buy On Amazon and Buy On Amazon
- Mixing spoons: Buy On Amazon
- Serving platter: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
For the Lamb Koftas:
For the Greek Salad:
For the Dressing:
Step-by-Step Instructions
For the Lamb Koftas:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Take small portions of the lamb mixture and shape them into oval or cylindrical patties, about 2 inches long.
If you're grilling the koftas, skewer them onto metal or wooden skewers. Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop pan, heat it over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Grill or pan-sear the lamb koftas for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. Lamb is best when slightly pink in the center.
Remove the koftas from the grill or pan and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps them moist.
For the Greek Salad:
While the koftas are resting, prepare the Greek salad. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad ingredients.
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients and coat them with the dressing.
Assembly and Serving:
Arrange the Greek Lamb Koftas on a serving platter alongside the freshly prepared Greek Salad.
If desired, garnish with additional fresh mint and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
Serve this Mediterranean delight immediately. The juicy lamb koftas paired with the crisp and tangy Greek Salad create a burst of flavors in every bite.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 560.52kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 46.88g73%
- Saturated Fat 16.18g81%
- Cholesterol 99.91mg34%
- Sodium 698.17mg30%
- Potassium 687.15mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 11.35g4%
- Dietary Fiber 3.66g15%
- Sugars 4.41g
- Protein 23.49g47%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill in the lamb koftas for different flavor profiles.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the lamb koftas to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- Vegetarian Option: Make vegetarian koftas using ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, or mushrooms for a meatless version.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions:
- Greek Lamb Koftas with Greek Salad is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with warm pita bread, hummus, or tzatziki for a more substantial feast.
Allergen Information:
Here's the allergen information for Greek Lamb Koftas with Fresh Greek Salad:
Dairy: This recipe contains feta cheese in the Greek salad, which is a dairy product. If you have lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, you can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Gluten: There are no gluten-containing ingredients in this recipe, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. However, if you plan to serve it with pita bread, ensure you choose a gluten-free option.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Pairing beverages with Greek Lamb Koftas and Greek Salad can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some recommendations:
Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like a Greek Xinomavro or a Spanish Tempranillo complements the savory flavors of the lamb koftas and adds depth to the meal.
White Wine: A crisp and refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Assyrtiko (a Greek varietal) pairs well with the fresh Greek salad, balancing the dish's acidity.
Tzatziki Sauce: To elevate the flavors, serve with tzatziki sauce and pair with a glass of chilled Greek Retsina wine.
Non-Alcoholic Options: If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, opt for sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a traditional Greek beverage like ouzo.
Storage and Leftovers:
Proper storage and handling help maintain the quality of Greek Lamb Koftas with Fresh Greek Salad:
Leftovers: If you have leftover koftas or salad, store them separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate the koftas for up to 2-3 days and the salad for up to 1-2 days. Reheat the koftas gently in the microwave or oven to retain their moisture.
Dressing: Store any remaining dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Mix it with the salad just before serving.
Pita Bread: If serving with pita bread, keep it in a resealable bag or airtight container at room temperature.
