Go Back
+ servings

Lamb Pita Sandwiches with Tzatziki Recipe for Two

This quick lamb pita recipe for two brings a bold, savory flavor reminiscent of shawarma, without the need for a rotisserie. The ground lamb is seasoned with cinnamon and garlic for depth, then pan-seared to develop a crisp crust, and served with a cool, tangy homemade tzatziki.
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Sandwich
Cuisine Middle Eastern-Inspired
Servings 2

Equipment

  • 12-inch nonstick skillet
  • Grater
  • Microwave (optional, for warming pitas)

Ingredients
  

Tzatziki Sauce:

  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ cucumber with ¼ grated and ¼ thinly sliced (keep separate)
  • ½ teaspoon minced fresh mint or dill
  • 1 garlic clove minced (divided use)
  • teaspoon salt used in sauce portion

Lamb Patties:

  • 12 ounces ground lamb
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • teaspoon pepper
  • Remaining garlic from above
  • ½ teaspoon salt for lamb

For Assembly:

  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • 2 8-inch pita breads
  • ½ romaine lettuce heart 3 ounces, thinly sliced
  • 4 thin tomato slices

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Tzatziki: Mix yogurt, grated cucumber, mint or dill, half of the minced garlic, and ⅛ teaspoon salt in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate to chill while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  • Form and Cook the Lamb Patties: In a mixing bowl, break apart the lamb and add ground cinnamon, pepper, the rest of the garlic, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix gently by hand until combined. Divide and shape into six patties, each about ½ inch thick.
    Heat vegetable oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Place the patties in the skillet and sear until nicely browned on one side, around 4 minutes. Flip and cook the second side over medium heat for about 4 more minutes or until fully cooked through. Move cooked patties to a paper towel–lined plate.
  • Assemble the Sandwiches: Slice about 2 inches off the top of each pita and set the tops aside or discard. Microwave the pitas for 30 seconds until warmed. Spread half of the tzatziki inside each pita. Layer with sliced cucumber, lettuce, tomato, and lamb patties. Serve warm.

Notes

  • If you prefer dill over mint, either works well in the tzatziki for a fresh finish.
  • For a lower-carb option, serve the patties over salad instead of in pita.
  • The patties can be made ahead and reheated, making this a flexible meal for busy evenings.
Keyword dinner for two lamb recipe, easy lamb pita meal, homemade tzatziki lamb sandwich, lamb pita recipe for two, quick Mediterranean lamb wrap, recipes for two
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!