If you’re searching for a delicious and nutritious meal that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table, these healthy Mediterranean meatballs are the perfect choice. Packed with vibrant herbs and spices, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite, making them an ideal option for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to any gathering. Pair them with a fresh salad or a side of your favorite roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Steps
- Grate the onion using a box grater or food processor, then squeeze out the excess liquid to avoid making the meatballs too moist.
- In a mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef with grated onion, minced garlic, eggs, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper using your hands.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, aiming for about 30, and place them on a prepared baking sheet.
- To prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands while rolling, keep a bowl of water nearby and wet your hands as needed.
- Bake the meatballs in the oven, enjoying the convenience of baking over pan-frying, especially when preparing large quantities.
- For freezing, let the baked meatballs cool, then freeze them individually on a cookie sheet before transferring to a labeled freezer bag.
- When ready to serve, preheat the oven to 400°F, place the frozen meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (90% lean, 10% fat)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
FAQ
- Can I use different types of meat for the Mediterranean meatballs?
- Yes, while the recipe calls for ground beef, you can experiment with other ground meats like chicken or turkey. However, ground beef is recommended for its rich flavor that complements the bold Mediterranean spices.
- What is the best way to ensure my meatballs remain moist and tender?
- Incorporating both eggs and breadcrumbs as binders helps maintain the moisture and tenderness of the meatballs. Panko breadcrumbs are specifically recommended for their airy texture.
- How can I prevent the meatball mixture from sticking to my hands while rolling?
- Keep a bowl of water nearby and wet your hands as you roll the meatballs. This simple trick prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- How should I freeze the meatballs for later use?
- After baking and cooling the meatballs, freeze them on a cookie sheet to ensure they freeze completely. Once frozen, transfer them to a labeled freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months.
- What are some serving suggestions for Mediterranean meatballs?
- These meatballs pair well with homemade tzatziki sauce and can be served in various ways, such as with couscous, in a roasted cauliflower bowl, wrapped in pita bread, or alongside a Mediterranean salad.
Tips
- Keep a small bowl of water nearby while rolling the meatballs and wet your hands regularly. This prevents the meat mixture from sticking to your hands, making the rolling process easier and neater.
- Use both eggs and panko breadcrumbs as binders in the meatball mixture. Panko breadcrumbs are particularly effective at maintaining the meatballs’ light and tender texture.
- To ensure uniform cooking, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the meatballs. This ensures they are all the same size and will cook evenly.
- For freezing, arrange the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a labeled freezer bag for storage. This method ensures they don’t stick together and are easy to reheat later.
Equipment
- Box Grater or Food Processor with Grating Attachment – For grating the onion.
- Baking Sheet or Cookie Sheet – For baking and freezing the meatballs.
- Parchment Paper – To line the baking sheet for baking meatballs.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon – For portioning the meatballs evenly.
- Freezer Bags – For storing meatballs in the freezer.
