Greek Sliders with Creamy Cucumber Sauce

Indulge in the flavors of Greece without leaving your kitchen by trying these delightful Greek Sliders with Creamy Cucumber Sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe combines the freshness of Mediterranean ingredients with the fun of slider-style sandwiches. Add a touch of culinary flair to your meals and impress your guests with these tasty bites!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe for Greek Sliders is not just about delicious flavors; it’s about creating a wholesome dish that’s easy to make and customizable to your preferences. The ground meat—whether chicken or beef—is infused with aromatic herbs and spices that give these sliders a distinctive Greek touch. The creamy cucumber sauce, reminiscent of tzatziki, adds a refreshing contrast to the savory patties, making each bite a culinary adventure. Plus, sliders are inherently versatile, allowing you to adjust toppings and accompaniments to suit any palate!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Sliders with Creamy Cucumber Sauce

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality ground meat to enhance flavor and texture.
• Chill the Sauce: Allow the creamy cucumber sauce to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to spice things up by adding olives, tomatoes, or a sprinkle of sumac on your sliders.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the patties and sauce in advance for easy meal prep; they can be stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
• Perfect Cooking Method: Grilling the patties not only adds a smoky flavor but also ensures a juicy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients to make these delicious Greek sliders:

For the Sliders:

• 1 lb ground chicken or ground beef
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Slider buns or small brioche rolls
• Sliced tomato, lettuce, and red onion for serving
• Crumbled feta for topping (optional)

For the Creamy Cucumber Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1/2 tsp dried
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken or ground beef, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This blend of flavors is what gives the sliders their Greek flair.

Step 2: Form the mixture into 10-12 small patties. Ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking. Creating a slight indent in the center of each patty will help them cook evenly and maintain their shape.

Step 3: Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add a light coating of oil to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and have a nice golden brown color. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for chicken or 160°F (71°C) for beef.

Step 4: While the patties are cooking, prepare the creamy cucumber sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (squeezed dry), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Once mixed, place the sauce in the refrigerator to chill for about 10-15 minutes, enhancing its flavor.

Step 5: Once the patties are cooked, lightly toast the slider buns on the skillet or grill for added texture. This step adds a desirable crunch and ensures the buns don’t get soggy when assembled.

Step 6: To assemble, spread a generous spoonful of the creamy cucumber sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with fresh lettuce, a slice of tomato, a cooked patty, slices of red onion, and additional sauce on top. If desired, sprinkle with crumbled feta for added flavor.

Step 7: Place the top bun on your sliders and serve them warm. Consider offering extra sauce on the side for dipping, allowing everyone to customize their experience!

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the sliders in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the patties and sauce in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and cook the patties just before serving to maintain freshness.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken or beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that works well, offering a leaner option with a similar taste profile.

3. What can I serve with Greek Sliders?

Side dishes like Greek salad, sweet potato fries, or a tzatziki dip complement the sliders perfectly. A side of roasted vegetables or hummus adds a healthy twist.

4. How long do leftovers last?

Leftover sliders and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave before serving.

5. Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag for longer storage. Cook from frozen when ready to use, adding a few more minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

These Greek Sliders with Creamy Cucumber Sauce offer an easy and delicious way to bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean into your home. Perfect for parties, casual dinners, or even meal prep, this recipe will impress your family and guests alike. Don’t miss the chance to savor these delightful mini sandwiches at your next gathering!