Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey or lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tbsp dried Greek oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 4 small-to-medium pita breads
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly shaved
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/2 English cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2%)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh dill
  • 1 pinch garlic powder

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground protein with minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh mint. Mix by hand just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
  2. Divide the meat mixture into four equal-sized balls (approximately 4oz each). Keep the meat cold until ready to cook.
  3. Prepare the 'cheat' tzatziki by whisking together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, fresh dill, and a pinch of garlic powder in a small bowl. Set aside.
  4. Heat a large cast iron skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high heat until wisps of smoke appear. Do not add oil.
  5. Place a meat ball onto the hot surface. Immediately place a pita bread directly on top of the meat.
  6. Using a heavy burger press or a second heavy pan, press down firmly on the pita for 10 seconds to smash the meat into a thin, even layer that adheres to the bread.
  7. Cook for 3-4 minutes undisturbed until the meat develops a deep brown, crispy crust. Use an offset spatula to flip the pita and sear the bread side for 30 seconds.
  8. Remove from heat and top with the shaved red onion, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and a dollop of the prepared tzatziki sauce.