Juicy spiced beef kofta paired with creamy hummus, crisp cucumber, and vibrant tomato salad in one hearty, colorful bowl. This Mediterranean-inspired meal is packed with protein, freshness, and bold flavor—perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This kofta bowl is a complete meal that’s nutritious, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. The kofta brings warmth and spice, the hummus adds creamy richness, and the fresh vegetables offer cool crunch and brightness. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for those seeking a balanced, Mediterranean-style dish.

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 or lamb
• 1/2 small onion, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the hummus:

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed (for consistency)
• Paprika and chopped parsley, for garnish

For the salad:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, allspice, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small oval patties or meatballs.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add koftas and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
4. For the hummus, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt in a food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to adjust consistency. Garnish with paprika and chopped parsley.
5. In a mixing bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes and cucumber with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and parsley to make the salad.
6. To assemble, place a scoop of hummus in a bowl, add a few pieces of kofta, and finish with a generous helping of the fresh salad. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with cooking time around 15 minutes.
Total time: 45 minutes.

Variations

• Grain Base: Add a base of cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice to make the bowl more filling.
• Spicy Option: Add chili flakes or a touch of harissa to the kofta for heat.
• Dairy Addition: Include a dollop of labneh or a sprinkle of feta cheese.
• Vegan Swap: Replace kofta with falafel or grilled vegetables for a plant-based version.
• Herb Twist: Use mint or cilantro in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the kofta in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Hummus and salad are best served cold or at room temperature. For meal prep, assemble bowls just before serving to maintain freshness.

FAQs

What is kofta?

Kofta refers to spiced ground meat, often shaped into patties or skewers, common in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.

Can I bake the kofta instead of frying?

Yes, bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through, until fully cooked.

What can I substitute for tahini in the hummus?

Use sunflower seed butter or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture, though the flavor will change.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, all components are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes, all components can be made ahead and stored separately. Assemble the bowl just before serving.

What other proteins can I use?

Ground turkey or chicken also work well in place of beef or lamb.

How do I make the kofta mixture stick together?

Make sure to mix the meat well until slightly sticky. If needed, add a spoonful of breadcrumbs or an egg yolk.

Can I grill the kofta?

Absolutely. Grill over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked.

What other dressings can I add?

A drizzle of tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce works well for extra flavor.

How do I keep the salad fresh?

Store it without the dressing and toss with olive oil and lemon juice just before serving.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean Kofta Bowl with Hummus and Fresh Veggies is a vibrant, well-balanced meal that’s full of flavor and texture. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and suitable for both casual lunches and elegant dinners. Whether for meal prep or a fresh family meal, this dish offers a nourishing and delicious way to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.

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