Name: Mediterranean Hummus Bowl with Juicy Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 small onion, grated; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground coriander; 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for topping); 200g cherry tomatoes, sliced; 500g minced beef or lamb; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 200g creamy hummus; 1 cucumber, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Paprika, for dusting; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s not only flavorful but also quick to prepare, the Mediterranean Hummus Bowl with Juicy Meatballs is your perfect answer! This dish beautifully combines the creaminess of hummus with the delightful crunch of fresh vegetables and the savory goodness of meatballs, creating a culinary experience that tickles your taste buds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend lunch, this recipe promises to deliver a wholesome meal packed with vibrant flavors and textures.

At the heart of this Mediterranean bowl are the fiery meatballs, seasoned with aromatic spices that bring a depth of flavor to the table. Paired with the creamy smoothness of hummus and fresh veggies, every bite is a wonderful harmony of contrasting ingredients. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to assemble! Just a few steps and you’re on your way to enjoying a dish that not only looks stunning but also provides a satisfying and nourishing option for your meal.

The combination of juicy meatballs and veggie toppings makes it a customizable meal, allowing you to play with ingredients based on what you have on hand. Is there anything better than a meal that’s easy to make and offers such versatility? This Mediterranean Hummus Bowl is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Hummus Bowl

Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy days or when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
Colorful & Nutritious: Packed with fresh veggies, this bowl is as good for you as it is beautiful.
Customizable: Feel free to mix and match ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices gives the meatballs a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the hummus.
Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead for lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making your Mediterranean Hummus Bowl with Juicy Meatballs, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools and ingredients. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized. Lay out all your ingredients, which include minced meat, onions, garlic, spices, and fresh vegetables. A large mixing bowl will come in handy for combining those delicious meatball ingredients.

In addition to your mixing bowl, a skillet for cooking the meatballs is essential. Opt for a non-stick skillet if you have one, as it makes the cooking process easier and helps achieve that desirable browning. You’ll also want a cutting board and a sharp knife to chop your veggies and garlic finely. Finally, you can use measuring spoons for accuracy when adding your spices and oils. Having everything prepped ensures a smooth cooking process and makes it easier to follow the recipe.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 small onion, grated
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground coriander
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for topping)
200g cherry tomatoes, sliced
500g minced beef or lamb
2 cloves garlic, minced
200g creamy hummus
1 cucumber, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Paprika, for dusting
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Begin by mixing the minced meat in a large bowl. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, and the flavorful spices: cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, along with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget to throw in the chopped parsley for an added freshness. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients gently but thoroughly until everything is well combined, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Now that your meatball mixture is ready, it’s time to shape them! Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls approximately 1–1.5 inches in diameter. This size is great for ensuring they cook evenly and provide a perfect bite. As you form them, place the meatballs onto a plate or cutting board, ready for cooking. This step is not only fun but also helps in making sure they all cook uniformly.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your meatballs to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 8–10 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they are evenly browned on all sides. The goal here is to achieve a nice crispy edge while keeping them juicy inside. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning but keep it high enough for a good sear!

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

With the meatballs cooked and ready, it’s time to put your Mediterranean Hummus Bowl together. Start by spreading half a cup of creamy hummus into each serving bowl, creating a luscious base. Top this with the sliced cherry tomatoes and chopped cucumber for a refreshing crunch. Lastly, drizzle a bit more olive oil over everything, dust with paprika for a lovely hint of color and extra flavor, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Lastly, it’s time to serve! Add 3-4 meatballs on top of the hummus and veggies in each bowl. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mediterranean creation. Optionally, serve some warm pita on the side, which is perfect for scooping up the hummus and meatballs!

Variations

Protein: Substitute minced beef or lamb with chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian option using chickpeas.
Vegetables: Experiment with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or avocado for an added dimension.
Spices: Tailor the flavor by adding chili flakes for heat or different herbs like oregano or dill.

Cooking Notes

For extra flavor, consider marinating the minced meat with spices for an hour or two before cooking.
Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet while cooking the meatballs to allow proper browning.
Store leftover cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for meal prep!
Consider cooking the meatballs in the oven (baked) for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm pita bread, perfect for dipping into the hummus.
Pair with a light salad or tzatziki sauce to balance the meal.

Tips

Always taste your meatball mixture before cooking to adjust seasonings as desired.
For a creamier texture, make your own hummus using canned chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.
To make this meal more filling, serve over a bed of quinoa or couscous.
Experiment with different toppings like olives or feta cheese for added Mediterranean flair.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 320mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner option. You may also try a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet before serving.

Can the hummus be made in advance?

Yes, homemade hummus can be made a few days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before serving.

Can I serve this dish cold?

Yes, for a refreshing twist, this bowl can be served cold. Just let the meatballs cool and assemble with cold veggies and hummus!

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Hummus Bowl with Juicy Meatballs is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. With its colorful presentation and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for any day of the week or any occasion. Not only does it satisfy your hunger, but it also offers an abundance of nutrients, making it a wise choice for those seeking to enjoy wholesome food without the fuss. Don’t hesitate to try it out in your kitchen! Once you do, I bet it will quickly become a favorite in your home. Share your variations and experiences in the comments, and feel free to spread the joy of this delicious bowl to friends and family!

Mediterranean Hummus Bowl with Juicy Meatballs