Craving a hearty and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare? These Lamb Pita Sandwiches bring tender, spiced lamb together with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped in soft pita bread. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a portable picnic meal.
With bold seasonings, fresh herbs, and a satisfying combination of textures, these sandwiches are a delicious way to enjoy lamb in a convenient, handheld format.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Lamb:
- 1 pound (450g) ground lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 soft pita breads
- 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, or spinach)
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: fresh parsley or mint for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 2: Cook the Lamb
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the lamb is fully browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or oven for 1–2 minutes.
- Spread a generous layer of tzatziki sauce inside each pita.
- Add a portion of cooked lamb, then top with mixed greens, tomato slices, and red onion.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or mint if desired.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries.
- Pair with a light Mediterranean salad or tabbouleh.
- Drizzle extra tzatziki over the top for added creaminess.
- Wrap in parchment paper for a portable lunch option.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 sandwich) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 8 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Sugars | 4 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 520 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Lamb is a rich source of protein, iron, and B vitamins.
- Greek yogurt tzatziki adds protein and probiotics.
- Fresh vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Pita bread offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly ground lamb for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Drain cucumber well for tzatziki to avoid a watery sauce.
- Warm pita slightly before assembling to enhance texture and taste.
- Experiment with additional toppings like roasted red peppers or feta cheese.
Variations to Try
- Substitute lamb with ground beef, chicken, or turkey for a different protein option.
- Add pickled vegetables for extra tang and crunch.
- Use whole wheat pita for a higher fiber option.
- Spice up the lamb mixture with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
These Lamb Pita Sandwiches offer a delicious, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. With tender, spiced lamb, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki, they’re perfect for family dinners, casual lunches, or impressing guests with a handheld gourmet treat.
Whether for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this recipe combines simplicity, taste, and nutrition in every bite.