All Recipes - Mediterranean Turkey Kofta + Roasted Butternut

Mediterranean Turkey Kofta + Roasted Butternut



As the cold weather lingers, I’ve been craving meals that are warm and comforting yet still remind me of summer. This dish does just that! Juicy, spiced turkey kofta brings bold Mediterranean flavors, while roasted butternut squash adds a cozy, slightly sweet contrast. A cool, creamy tzatziki ties everything together, making this the perfect balance of hearty and refreshing. It’s packed with brain-boosting, mood-enhancing ingredients like lean protein, warming spices, and healthy fats—ideal for staying energized during the winter months. Plus, it’s simple to make and perfect for meal prep! Serve it with warm pita and a side of hummus for a complete meal.

Mediterranean Turkey Kofta + Roasted Butternut

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Turkey Kofta

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp Greek yogurt, nonfat
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Butternut Squash

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Tzatziki

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, nonfat
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp dill, fresh
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Grate the cucumber, then squeeze out excess liquid with a paper towel.
  2. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs. Season with salt & pepper, then chill in the fridge while you prepare the rest.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Spread on one side of a large lined baking sheet.
  5. In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, onion, garlic, parsley, spices, yogurt, and olive oil until well combined.
  6. Form into oval-shaped patties (like sausage shapes).
  7. Place the turkey kofta on the other side of the baking sheet with the butternut squash. Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
  8. Flip the turkey kofta.
  9. Then bake for another 20 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  10. Check the butternut squash—if needed, roast for an additional 5 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  11. Remove everything from the oven.
  12. Drizzle turkey kofta with tzatziki sauce or serve it on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Why You'll Love This



Published: Feb 18, 2025