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.
½cucumberwith ¼ grated and ¼ thinly sliced (keep separate)
½teaspoonminced fresh mint or dill
1garlic cloveminced (divided use)
⅛teaspoonsaltused in sauce portion
Lamb Patties:
12ouncesground lamb
½teaspoonground cinnamon
⅛teaspoonpepper
Remaining garlicfrom above
½teaspoonsaltfor lamb
For Assembly:
1teaspoonvegetable oil
28-inch pita breads
½romaine lettuce heart3 ounces, thinly sliced
4thin tomato slices
Prevent your screen from going dark
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