Juicy, pan-seared beef kofta meatballs, rich in Middle Eastern spices, are paired with a crisp, vibrant salad and warm pita bread in this wholesome and flavorful dish. A drizzle of creamy tahini sauce ties it all together, making this an ideal choice for an easy weeknight dinner or a relaxed meal with guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef kofta recipe is packed with savory, aromatic spices that deliver bold flavor in every bite. It’s a balanced and satisfying dish, offering protein, freshness, and warm bread all on one plate. The preparation is simple and fast, making it perfect for busy evenings. Plus, it’s highly customizable, kid-friendly, and works well for meal prep or entertaining.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the kofta:
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 small onion, grated
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the salad:
2 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley

For serving:
Warm pita bread
Tahini sauce (optional)

directions

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly by hand until evenly combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked through.
While the kofta is cooking, assemble the salad in a large bowl by combining chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and fresh herbs.
Warm the pita bread briefly in a dry skillet or oven until soft and pliable.
Serve the kofta alongside the salad and pita bread. Drizzle with tahini sauce if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Lamb Kofta: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a richer, more traditional flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a finely chopped green chili to the meat mixture.
Kofta Skewers: Shape the meat into logs and thread onto skewers for grilling.
Yogurt Sauce: Serve with a side of garlic yogurt sauce as an alternative to tahini.
Grain Bowl: Serve kofta over rice, bulgur, or couscous instead of pita.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based ground meat and adjust seasoning as needed.

storage/reheating

Store cooked kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. The salad should be stored separately and consumed within 1–2 days for freshness. Pita bread can be wrapped and stored at room temperature for 2 days or frozen for longer storage.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well. Adjust cooking time slightly as it may cook faster and benefit from a bit of olive oil added to the mixture for moisture.

How do I prevent the kofta from falling apart during cooking?

Ensure the mixture is well-mixed and not too wet. Letting the shaped kofta rest in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before cooking can help them hold together better.

Can I bake the kofta instead of frying?

Yes, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What kind of tahini sauce should I use?

You can use store-bought or homemade tahini sauce. A simple version includes tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt.

Can I make the kofta in advance?

Yes, the raw kofta mixture can be made and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance. You can also freeze shaped kofta for up to 2 months.

What sides go well with this dish?

Hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, or a simple cucumber-yogurt salad pair beautifully with kofta.

Can I grill the kofta?

Absolutely. Grill the kofta on medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.

How do I keep the pita warm and soft?

Wrap pita in foil and warm in the oven, or steam briefly in a covered pan to soften.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, simply reduce or omit the spices like paprika and cinnamon for a milder version.

How can I make this low-carb?

Serve the kofta with a salad or in lettuce wraps instead of pita bread.

Conclusion

Spiced Beef Kofta with Fresh Salad and Pita is a flavorful, nutritious dish that brings Middle Eastern flair to your home kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and spices, you can create a satisfying meal that’s both wholesome and exciting. Whether served for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s a delicious way to enjoy bold flavors with minimal effort.