If you are searching for a delightful Mediterranean treat, the Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt Recipe is an absolute must-try. These sliders capture the perfect balance of juicy, herb-infused lamb patties nestled inside soft mini pitas, complemented beautifully by a refreshing and tangy dill Greek yogurt sauce. This recipe brings an inviting burst of flavor with every bite, making it ideal for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even a fun appetizer that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines through its simplicity and thoughtfully chosen ingredients that build layers of texture, flavor, and color. Each element plays a crucial role, from the aromatic herbs elevating the lamb to the cool cucumber slices adding crunch and freshness.
- 1 lb ground lamb: The rich and tender foundation of the sliders, providing a robust flavor.
- 2 1/2 tsp dried rosemary: Adds a woodsy, pine-like aroma that enhances the lamb perfectly.
- 2 tsp dried oregano: Brings a warm and slightly bitter herbaceous note.
- 2 large garlic cloves, grated or minced: Infuses a sharp, pungent kick that marries all the spices together.
- 1/4 small onion, grated or finely minced: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to the patties.
- 1 tsp kosher salt: Essential for highlighting all the flavors inside the lamb mixture.
- 1 large egg yolk: Acts as the binder to keep the patties juicy but intact.
- 3 tbsp plain breadcrumbs (panko works too): Gives the right texture and helps retain moisture without heaviness.
- 2 tbsp + 1 tsp olive oil, divided: Used for both mixing and cooking, adding richness and ensuring perfect browning.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the dill sauce, bringing a cool tang.
- 1 tsp dried dill: Offers a fresh and slightly grassy flavor that beautifully complements the yogurt and lamb.
- 2 tsp lemon juice: Adds zesty brightness and balances the richness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning every component just right.
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced: Brings a crisp, fresh bite that lightens the sliders.
- 15 mini pitas (or slider buns if preferred): The perfect handheld vessel to enjoy these flavorful morsels.
How to Make Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Lamb Patties
Begin by combining the ground lamb with rosemary, oregano, grated garlic, minced onion, kosher salt, egg yolk, breadcrumbs, and a teaspoon of olive oil in a large bowl. Mix gently—just enough to bring everything together without overworking the meat, which keeps the patties tender. Then, divide the mixture evenly into 15 small portions and press each into a flat, round patty sized to fit inside your mini pitas.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat half a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Arrange half of the patties in the pan, pressing each down lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking and a lovely sear. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and develop crispy edges. Remove and set aside, then repeat the process with the remaining patties, adding more oil if needed.
Step 3: Make the Dill Greek Yogurt
While the patties cook, whisk together Greek yogurt, dried dill, lemon juice, and a teaspoon of olive oil in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to your preference. This creamy, herbaceous sauce will perfectly balance the rich flavors of the lamb sliders.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Carefully slice open each mini pita to create a pocket. Place one lamb patty inside each, then spoon in a generous dollop of the dill Greek yogurt. Layer with crisp cucumber slices for that refreshing crunch. If you like, sprinkle a little extra dill on top to amp up the flavor and presentation.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these sliders warm to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and textures—a true Mediterranean delight in bite-size form that’s perfect for sharing and savoring.
How to Serve Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your sliders by garnishing with fresh dill sprigs or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note. Thinly sliced red onions or a handful of fresh mint leaves can also add a fantastic herbal brightness that complements the creamy yogurt sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair your Lamb Sliders with simple yet flavorful sides like a crisp Greek salad, roasted lemon potatoes, or even a light tabbouleh. These sides complement the intense lamb flavor while offering a variety of textures and freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party spread, serve the sliders on a large wooden board arranged with bowls of extra dill yogurt sauce, pita chips, and colorful vegetable sticks. You can also offer a DIY slider station where guests add their own toppings like pickled red onions, feta cheese, or a drizzle of spicy harissa to personalize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover lamb patties or assembled sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dill Greek yogurt sauce separate to maintain its freshness and texture.
Freezing
To freeze, place uncooked lamb patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking fresh for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat cooked patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess. Reassemble sliders with fresh cucumber slices and dollops of the dill Greek yogurt for a delicious, almost-fresh experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground lamb gives this dish its signature Mediterranean taste, ground beef, turkey, or chicken could be used as alternatives. Just adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain the flavor balance.
Is dried dill the best option for the Greek yogurt sauce?
Dried dill works well because it offers concentrated flavor without excess moisture, which can thin out the sauce. However, fresh dill can be substituted if available, adding a bright herbaceous freshness. Just use about three times the amount of fresh dill as dried.
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time before cooking?
Yes, you can shape the patties a few hours or even a day before cooking. Store them covered in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld even more. Just let them come to room temperature before cooking for even heating.
What’s the best way to serve these sliders for a crowd?
Mini pitas are ideal for finger foods at a party. Consider laying them out buffet-style with all components separately so guests can build their own sliders. This adds a fun interactive element and caters to varying tastes.
Can I make the dill Greek yogurt sauce vegan?
Definitely! Substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt, and confirm that your dill and lemon juice flavors shine through. The sauce may have a different texture but will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about crafting a batch of these Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt Recipe—not only do they taste amazing, but they also bring a sense of warmth and sharing to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy night in, these sliders hit the perfect note of savory, tangy, and fresh. I urge you to give this recipe a try; once you experience these Mediterranean bites, they might just become your new favorite go-to for flavor-packed meals!
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Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 15 sliders 1x
Description
These Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt are a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer perfect for gatherings or a casual meal. Ground lamb is seasoned with aromatic herbs and garlic, pan-seared to perfection, and served in mini pitas with a tangy dill-infused Greek yogurt sauce and fresh cucumber slices.
Ingredients
Lamb Patties
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 2 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 large garlic cloves, grated or minced
- 1/4 small onion, grated or finely minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 3 tbsp plain breadcrumbs (panko works too)
- 1 tsp olive oil (for mixing)
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Dill Greek Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Assembly
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 15 mini pitas (or slider buns if preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lamb Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, dried rosemary, dried oregano, grated garlic, grated onion, kosher salt, egg yolk, breadcrumbs, and 1 teaspoon olive oil. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix which can make the patties tough. Divide the mixture into 15 equal portions, then shape each into a ball and flatten to small patties that will fit inside the mini pitas.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add 1/2 tablespoon olive oil. Place half of the patties in the skillet, pressing each gently with a spatula to ensure even contact. Cook until golden and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining patties, adding more oil as needed to prevent sticking.
- Make the Dill Greek Yogurt: In a small bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, dried dill, lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Sliders: Cut a slit in each mini pita pocket. Place a cooked lamb patty inside each pita, add a generous dollop of the dill Greek yogurt sauce, then layer with thin cucumber slices. Garnish with extra dill if desired for a fresh finishing touch.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sliders warm as a delicious finger food perfect for parties or a satisfying snack. Enjoy the combination of tender lamb, creamy tangy yogurt, and crisp cucumber for a delightful Mediterranean treat.
Notes
- To keep the patties juicy, avoid overmixing the meat mixture.
- For a fresher yogurt sauce, use fresh dill if available instead of dried.
- If mini pitas are not available, slider buns or small dinner rolls work as good alternatives.
- Cook patties in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps them brown properly.
- These sliders can be served with additional toppings such as tomato slices or red onion for more flavor variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
