Tzatziki Gyro Rice Bowls

Tzatziki Gyro Rice Bowls are a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired meal that combines all the best elements of a traditional gyro—savory meat, crisp vegetables, tangy tzatziki sauce—served over a bed of warm, fluffy rice. It’s a wholesome, customizable dish that’s easy to assemble and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bowls offer the delicious taste of your favorite Greek street food in a fresh, nourishing format. They’re easy to put together, filled with vibrant colors and textures, and are naturally gluten-free. With juicy gyro-style meat, cool and creamy tzatziki, and crisp veggies, every bite is satisfying and full of flavor. Plus, you can make them ahead, scale them for a crowd, or adapt them to suit your dietary needs.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the rice bowls:

• Cooked white or brown rice
• Gyro-style meat (sliced lamb, beef, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, diced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Kalamata olives (optional)
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the tzatziki sauce:

• Greek yogurt
• Cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Fresh dill or mint, chopped
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

directions

1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions. Fluff and set aside.
2. If using pre-cooked gyro meat, reheat in a skillet until warmed through. For homemade, cook your choice of sliced meat seasoned with oregano, garlic, and lemon until fully cooked.
3. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make tzatziki. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Assemble bowls: layer a serving of rice, then top with meat, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta.
5. Drizzle generously with tzatziki sauce and garnish with herbs and a squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: approx. 30 minutes

Variations

• Use quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
• Swap gyro meat for grilled chicken, falafel, or spiced tofu.
• Add a dollop of hummus or baba ganoush for extra richness.
• Include roasted veggies like zucchini or eggplant for more substance.
• Make it dairy-free by using plant-based yogurt and cheese alternatives.

storage/reheating

Store all components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat meat and rice in the microwave or skillet until warm. Tzatziki keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days—stir before using. Assemble bowls just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.

FAQs

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Basmati, jasmine, or brown rice all work well. Choose your favorite or what you have on hand.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki is a great time-saver if you don’t want to make it from scratch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure any pre-seasoned meats or sauces are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use falafel, grilled halloumi, or chickpeas for a delicious meatless option.

What does tzatziki taste like?

It’s creamy, tangy, and fresh, with a light garlic and herb flavor and cooling cucumber notes.

Can I prepare this for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Store rice, meat, and toppings separately for easy assembly during the week.

How can I make it low-carb?

Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice and load up on the veggies.

What’s the best protein for a gyro bowl?

Lamb, beef, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives all work well depending on your preferences.

Can I freeze any part of this dish?

You can freeze cooked gyro meat and rice. Do not freeze tzatziki—its texture changes when thawed.

How do I keep cucumbers from making the tzatziki watery?

Grate the cucumber and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a towel or cheesecloth before mixing.

Conclusion

Tzatziki Gyro Rice Bowls are a fresh and filling way to enjoy your favorite Greek flavors in a healthier, more flexible format. With creamy tzatziki, savory meat, and vibrant toppings over a bed of rice, this easy-to-make meal is both satisfying and nutrient-packed. Whether for meal prep or a quick dinner, it’s a dish you’ll crave again and again.

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