Pin it
This hearty Greek Ground Turkey Rice Bowl has become my weeknight salvation on busy days when I want something nutritious yet incredibly flavorful. The homemade Greek seasoning transforms ordinary ground turkey into something extraordinary, while the bright lemon herb rice and fresh cucumber tomato salad create a perfect balance of flavors.
I first created these bowls during a particularly hectic month when I needed healthy dinners that could be prepared ahead. My family fell in love with the Mediterranean flavors, and now they request these bowls regularly instead of takeout.
Ingredients
- Basmati rice: Washed thoroughly before cooking for fluffy texture and to remove excess starch
- Olive oil: High quality extra virgin adds authentic Mediterranean flavor
- Ground turkey: Lean protein that absorbs the seasoning beautifully
- Greek seasoning blend: The secret ingredient that elevates the entire dish
- Cherry tomatoes: Look for firm bright colored ones for the best sweetness
- Cocktail cucumbers: These smaller cucumbers have fewer seeds and more crunch
- Red onion: Provides a pleasant bite that balances the other ingredients
- Feta cheese: Authentic Greek feta made from sheep milk offers the most traditional flavor
- Kalamata olives: Their distinctive fruity brininess adds depth to each bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast and Cook the Rice:
- Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat, add rinsed basmati rice and stir constantly for one minute until every grain is coated with oil. This toasting step is crucial for developing nutty flavors in the rice. Add broth and salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 16 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender. Finish by stirring in olive oil, lemon juice, parsley and dill for brightness.
- Cook the Ground Turkey:
- While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle in the Greek seasoning, more olive oil, and salt. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until the turkey is completely cooked through with no pink remaining. The meat should be fragrant with Mediterranean herbs and spices.
- Prepare the Fresh Salad:
- In a medium bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumbers, and red onion. Add red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, and Greek seasoning. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. The acidity and sweetness will balance perfectly while the vegetables maintain their crunch.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Start with a base of the fragrant lemon herb rice. Add a generous portion of the seasoned ground turkey. Spoon the tomato cucumber salad alongside. Top with crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives. Finish with dollops of tzatziki sauce and hummus. Sprinkle with additional fresh herbs for color and flavor.
Pin it
The Greek seasoning blend is truly the heart of this recipe. I discovered its magic after experimenting with various Mediterranean flavors. Now I keep a jar ready in my pantry at all times because it transforms even the simplest proteins into something special.
Make-Ahead Magic
These bowls are ideal for meal prep. You can prepare all components up to four days in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. The flavors actually improve after a day in the refrigerator as the seasonings meld together. When ready to eat, simply reheat the rice and turkey mixture in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, then add the cold components and enjoy.
Customize Your Bowl
The beauty of these Greek bowls lies in their flexibility. For a lower carb option, replace the rice with cauliflower rice or serve the components over a bed of crisp romaine lettuce. Plant based eaters can substitute the ground turkey with crumbled tempeh or a chickpea mixture seasoned with the same Greek spices. Dairy free diners can omit the feta or use a plant based alternative while focusing on the hummus for creaminess.
The Perfect Greek Seasoning
Creating your own Greek seasoning blend elevates this dish from good to exceptional. Combine dried oregano, basil, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and a touch of cinnamon. The homemade version allows you to control the sodium level and adjust the herbs to your preference. Make a large batch and store it in an airtight container for up to three months to use in other Mediterranean inspired dishes.
Pin it
Your family and friends will crave this dish time and time again — enjoy every satisfying bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes the ground turkey so flavorful?
The ground turkey gets its exceptional flavor from a homemade Greek seasoning blend combined with olive oil. This mixture infuses the meat as it cooks, creating layers of Mediterranean flavor without requiring marinating time.
- → Can I make these bowls ahead of time?
Yes! These bowls are excellent for meal prep. Store the turkey-rice mixture together in one container and keep the cucumber-tomato salad separate. Both components will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Add the feta, olives, tzatziki and hummus when ready to serve.
- → Is there a substitute for basmati rice?
Absolutely. While basmati rice creates a light, fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients, you can substitute brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for different nutritional profiles. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- → Where can I find Greek seasoning?
While pre-made Greek seasoning is available in most grocery stores, making your own yields the best flavor. Typically, Greek seasoning includes oregano, basil, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and sometimes cinnamon or nutmeg.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground turkey with chickpeas sautéed in the same Greek seasoning blend, or use crumbled firm tofu seasoned similarly. You'll also want to substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth when cooking the rice.
- → What can I use instead of tzatziki sauce?
If you don't have tzatziki, you can use plain Greek yogurt mixed with a little lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Alternatively, a simple tahini sauce or even a drizzle of olive oil with lemon juice works well with these Mediterranean flavors.