Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt

Introduction

When it comes to family meals that blend flavor, ease, and a touch of gourmet flair, these Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt have quickly become a household favorite. The succulent lamb patties, infused with aromatic herbs, paired with the refreshing dill yogurt, make for a delightful treat that appeals to both adults and kids alike. Last weekend, I served these sliders at a small gathering, and the compliments were non-stop! They disappeared almost as quickly as I could make them. It’s a joy to share a dish that not only tastes amazing but also brings everyone together around the table.

Ingredients

For the 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)
• 2 tbsp + 1 tsp olive oil, divided

For the Dill Greek Yogurt:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp dried dill
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
• 15 mini pitas (or slider buns if preferred)

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb Patties:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, rosemary, oregano, garlic, onion, salt, egg yolk, breadcrumbs, and 1 tsp olive oil. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
2. Divide the mixture into 15 portions. Form each portion into a ball and then flatten them into small patties that fit inside the mini pitas.

Cook the Patties:

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and drizzle with 1/2 tbsp olive oil.
2. Add half of the patties, pressing each down with a spatula. Cook until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Repeat with the remaining patties, adding more oil as needed.

Make the Dill Greek Yogurt:

1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, dried dill, lemon juice, and 1 tsp olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Sliders:

1. Cut a slit in each mini pita and place a lamb patty inside.
2. Add a dollop of dill Greek yogurt and layer with cucumber slices.
3. Garnish with extra dill if desired.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm for a delicious Mediterranean bite-sized meal!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 15 sliders
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 180 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm: Best enjoyed fresh off the skillet.
• Pair with sides: Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
• Garnish: Add fresh herbs for an extra touch.
• Accompaniments: Offer extra dill yogurt on the side for dipping.
• Drinks: Pair with a light white wine or iced tea.

Additional Tips

1. Choose quality lamb: Opt for grass-fed lamb for enhanced flavor and better quality.
2. Don’t overmix the meat: This ensures tender patties that aren’t tough.
3. Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F for perfectly cooked patties.
4. Experiment with spices: Try adding cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist.
5. Let the patties rest: After cooking, let them sit for a couple of minutes to retain juiciness.

Recipe Variations

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lamb mixture for a kick.
• Herb variations: Fresh herbs like mint or parsley can be added for a fresh taste.
• Substitute proteins: Try ground beef, chicken, or turkey if lamb isn’t preferred.
• Change the yogurt: Substitute the Greek yogurt with tzatziki for a more traditional flavor.
• Make it a salad: Serve the lamb patties over a bed of greens instead of in pitas.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as appetizers: These sliders are perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Build a platter: Create a Mediterranean platter with olives, feta, and roasted peppers.
• Add variety: Serve with different sauces like harissa or tahini for added flavor.
• Make a meal: Pair with rice pilaf or couscous to round out a delicious meal.
• Customize for kids: Offer sliders without the yogurt for picky eaters.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing patties: You can freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Cooked sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• Dill yogurt storage: Keep leftover dill yogurt in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?

• Yes, ground beef is a great substitute if you prefer it over lamb.

1. How do I know when the patties are done?

• Use a meat thermometer; they should reach 160°F internally.

1. Can I prepare the patties in advance?

• Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate the patties up to a day ahead.

1. What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

• You can use regular yogurt or sour cream if you prefer.

1. Are these sliders gluten-free?

• To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pita.

1. How spicy are these sliders?

• They are mild, but you can add spices to increase the heat.

1. Can I grill the patties instead of pan-frying?

• Yes, grilling adds a nice smoky flavor!

1. What herbs can I substitute?

• Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be used instead of dried herbs.

1. How can I make these sliders larger?

• Simply increase the size of the patties for full-sized burgers.

1. Can I serve these sliders cold?
   • While they are best served warm, they can also be enjoyed cold.

Conclusion

Lamb Sliders with Dill Greek Yogurt are not only a flavorful addition to your meal repertoire but also a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Their delightful combination of savory lamb and refreshing yogurt makes them a hit with both family and friends. Whether you serve them at a casual gathering or a special event, these sliders are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will become a favorite in your home too!

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