This Mediterranean Meatball recipe is a delightful fusion of savory spices, fresh herbs, and tender ground meat, creating a dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion. Juicy meatballs are infused with garlic, parsley, and a hint of feta, offering an aromatic experience that transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean. Whether served with a side of tzatziki, nestled in a pita, or simply enjoyed on their own, these meatballs are sure to impress and satisfy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Mediterranean meatball recipe for its incredible flavor profile and ease of preparation. The combination of spices like cumin and coriander, along with fresh herbs such as parsley and mint, creates a complex taste that is both refreshing and comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a meal prep option, these meatballs come together in under an hour and can be served in various ways. Plus, they fit well into a Mediterranean diet, offering a healthy balance of protein and wholesome ingredients.
Tips and Tricks
- To enhance the flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- If you’re short on time, use pre-minced garlic and onion to speed up the process.
- For extra tenderness, soak the breadcrumbs in milk or yogurt before mixing them into the meat mixture.
- Make sure to bake the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Make Ahead Tips
To make this recipe even more convenient, you can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. They will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. You can also shape the meatballs and freeze them raw for up to three months. Just ensure to label them, and when you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Variations
- For a leaner option, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Add sautéed spinach or grated zucchini to the meat mixture for an extra veggie boost.
- Try a different herb profile by incorporating dill or oregano instead of parsley and mint.
- For a spicy twist, mix in some chopped jalapeños or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.
How to Serve
Serve your Mediterranean meatballs on a platter drizzled with a homemade tzatziki sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. For a colorful presentation, garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. Pair with warm pita bread or a fresh Greek salad to complete the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Enjoy your Mediterranean meatballs with a refreshing glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemon water with mint complements the meal beautifully. Side dishes like roasted vegetables or couscous salad enhance the Mediterranean vibe, while a light dessert like baklava can round out your meal.
How to Store
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, or microwave for a quick option.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
You don’t need any special equipment, but a food processor can make chopping herbs and mixing easier.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, replace the ground meat with lentils or chickpeas and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute. To make it gluten-free, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your tzatziki sauce uses dairy-free yogurt for a fully dairy-free option.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh herbs like basil or mint from your garden for an extra burst of flavor. In the fall, consider adding some pumpkin puree to the meat mixture for a seasonal twist. During winter, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available, maintaining the flavor without being limited by the season.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I substitute the meat? Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well.
- How long do these meatballs take to cook? They typically take about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Can I make them smaller or larger? Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the meatballs; smaller meatballs will cook faster, while larger ones will need more time.
- What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? You can use oats, crushed crackers, or even ground nuts for a gluten-free option.
How To Make mediterranean meatball recipe
Mediterranean Meatball
This Mediterranean Meatball recipe is a delightful fusion of savory spices, fresh herbs, and tender ground meat, creating a dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, mint, garlic, onion, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, egg, and milk.
- Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving with tzatziki sauce and your favorite sides.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 428Total Fat 24gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 154mgSodium 635mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 37g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean meatball recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home, offering a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Embrace the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean and let these meatballs shine on your dinner table!
