Chef Shares Recipe for Authentic Keftedes Meatballs at AVA MediterrAegean in Miami

Frederic Aumeunier's Mediterranean-inspired meatballs are a signature dish at the Coconut Grove restaurant.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 4:31pm

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Chef Frederic Aumeunier of AVA MediterrAegean in Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood shares his recipe for traditional Greek keftedes meatballs, which feature a blend of ground beef, herbs, spices, and breadcrumbs. The meatballs are baked until cooked through and served with a garnish of lemon zest.

Why it matters

Keftedes meatballs are a classic Mediterranean dish that showcases the flavors of the region. AVA MediterrAegean's take on this traditional recipe highlights the restaurant's commitment to authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, drawing on the culinary heritage of the Aegean Sea.

The details

Aumeunier's keftedes meatballs start with a pound of ground beef that is mixed with chopped dill, parsley, day-old bread, grated red onion, oregano, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a homemade kofta spice blend. The meatballs are then shaped and baked in the oven until cooked through. They are plated and garnished with lemon zest, and served with tzatziki sauce on the side.

  • The recipe was shared on January 28, 2026.

The players

Frederic Aumeunier

The chef at AVA MediterrAegean restaurant in Miami's Coconut Grove neighborhood.

AVA MediterrAegean

A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant located in the Arya Hotel and Suites in Coconut Grove, Miami.

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What they’re saying

“Roll up your sleeves and get creative with some simple ingredients in your kitchen. That's what's cooking tonight as we grab a Bite with Belkys.”

— Belkys Nerey (wsvn.com)

The takeaway

AVA MediterrAegean's authentic keftedes meatballs showcase the restaurant's commitment to traditional Mediterranean cuisine, drawing on the flavors and techniques of the Aegean region. The recipe's blend of spices, herbs, and breadcrumbs creates a flavorful and juicy meatball that transports diners to the shores of Greece.