Greek Tacos Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

When it comes to Greek tacos, there are a variety of delicious pairings that will enhance the Mediterranean flavors. A Greek salad, with its combination of ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, perfectly complements the tacos while reinforcing the dish’s Mediterranean roots. 

Tossing in a light lemon dressing adds a refreshing touch, making it a great palate cleanser. Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add a vibrant, colorful depth to the meal, providing both nutrition and flavor. 

For a fun appetizer, pita chips paired with creamy hummus offer a perfect snack to enjoy while waiting for the main course. 

If you’re craving extra protein, grilled shrimp skewers drizzled with lemon and herbs will bring a smoky, zesty element to your Greek-inspired meal, elevating the overall experience.

What Are Greek Tacos?

Imagine your standard taco but with a Mediterranean twist. Greek tacos feature seasoned ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped in soft flour tortillas. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a healthy alternative without compromising on flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients:
Greek tacos are rich in protein, healthy fats, and vibrant veggies. Ground turkey offers a lean protein source, while cucumbers and tomatoes provide hydration and essential vitamins.

2. Flavor Explosion:
The use of Mediterranean herbs like oregano and thyme, combined with fresh garlic and lemon, brings a bright and bold flavor profile. Each bite transports you to a sunlit terrace in Greece.

3. Versatility:
These tacos can be easily adjusted to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for extra veggies or a plant-based option, you can swap ingredients to create your personalized version.

4. Quick and Easy Preparation:
With straightforward preparation steps, this recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Busy weeknights don’t stand a chance against these quick yet satisfying tacos.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Greek Tacos

To create these delicious Greek tacos, gather the following ingredients:

Taco Filling

• 20 ounces ground turkey (93% lean)
• 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic
• Pinch of sea salt, or to taste
• 1/2 cup smooth tomato purée
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium chicken stock
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Mediterranean oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon each ground thyme and coriander
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Serving

• 8 soft flour tortillas
• 2 ripe Roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 English cucumber, diced small
• 2 cups shredded crisp Romaine lettuce
• 1/2 cup creamy tzatziki dressing
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

How To Make Greek Tacos?

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started! Making Greek tacos is a breeze. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Turkey Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely diced red onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and stir it around for about 30 seconds. This releases its aromatic essence.

Now, raise the heat to medium-high and add the ground turkey. Using a spatula, break the meat apart and brown it evenly. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, oregano, thyme, coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

Once the turkey is cooked through, pour in the tomato purée and chicken stock. Stir until everything is well combined. Then add the lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. This step makes them pliable and easier to work with. Once warmed, layer the turkey filling on each tortilla.

Top it generously with chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, shredded Romaine lettuce, creamy tzatziki, and crumbled feta. The colors alone will make your heart sing.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Fold the taco over and take a delicious bite. You may want to consider adding extra tzatziki on the side.

Tips for Perfect Greek Tacos

• Use Lean Meat: Ground turkey is a healthier option, but feel free to substitute it with ground chicken or even crumbled tempeh for a vegetarian treat.
• Warm Your Tortillas: Warming them prevents cracking and makes folding easier.
• Fresh Veggies: Go for the freshest ingredients you can find. It makes a huge difference in taste and texture.
• Tzatziki Love: Don’t skimp on tzatziki. A generous drizzle elevates everything.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the filling cool for a minute before assembling. This helps to preserve the tortilla texture.

How to Store the Leftovers?

Store any leftover turkey filling and toppings separately in airtight containers. The filling can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. 

Ensure your tortillas are wrapped tightly to prevent them from drying out. For longer storage, freeze the turkey filling for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Recommended Side Dishes for Greek Tacos

Pair your Greek tacos with these delightful sides:

1. Greek Salad:
A classic that never fails. Crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and salty olives dressed in olive oil. It’s refreshing and perfectly accompanies tacos.

2. Grilled Vegetable Skewers:
Seasoned with Mediterranean herbs, these skewers add a hearty touch. Grilling brings out natural sweetness and smokiness ideal for a summer meal.

3. Lemon Rice:
A fluffy rice dish flavored with lemon juice, herbs, and a touch of olive oil. It’s light and complements the tacos splendidly.

4. Roasted Potatoes:
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Tossed in garlic and oregano, these potatoes provide a fulfilling addition that pairs wonderfully.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

If you don’t have certain items on hand, here are some substitutes:

1. Ground Turkey:
Try ground chicken, beef, or for a vegetarian option, use lentils or chickpeas.

2. Tzatziki Dressing:
No tzatziki? You can whip up a simple yogurt sauce with Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice for a quick alternative.

3. Soft Flour Tortillas:
If you need a gluten-free option, corn tortillas do the job, too. They are thicker and lend a nice corn flavor.

4. Roma Tomatoes:
In place of Roma tomatoes, cherry tomatoes or even chopped bell peppers work as delightful alternatives.

Conclusion

Greek tacos are a perfect blend of flavors and health. As a food-loving dietitian, I stand by their nutritious benefits while being absolutely delicious. They’re quick to prepare, give room for creativity, and make memorable meals, especially when you share them with loved ones. 

Grab those ingredients, gather your friends or family, and embark on this culinary journey that’s sure to please everyone’s palate. Enjoy your flavorful adventure!

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