Name: Delicious Lemon Herb Meatballs for Healthy Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken); 3/4 cup panko; 1/4 cup cottage cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 shallot, minced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley; 2 tablespoons finely chopped basil; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Rice or quinoa; Arugula or greens; Basil vinaigrette; Parmesan cheese

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Lemon Herb Meatballs are my go-to for a light and flavorful meal that never disappoints. These tender meatballs are made with ground turkey, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon kick that brightens up any dish. Each bite is packed with flavor, making them perfect for salads, bowls, or quick weeknight dinners. If you’re looking for a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste, these baked lemon herb meatballs are a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Meatballs

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Lemon Herb Meatballs recipe. First, they’re incredibly simple to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish. Second, these meatballs are made with lean ground turkey, making them a low-fat option that fits perfectly into any healthy diet. Additionally, the fresh herbs and zesty lemon add a bright flavor that elevates the dish, making them ideal for meal prep or family dinners. You can enjoy them in various ways, from serving them over quinoa to adding them to a fresh salad. These easy lemon herb meatballs are versatile and can be paired with many sides. Lastly, baking instead of frying keeps them light and healthy!

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
3/4 cup panko
1/4 cup cottage cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 shallot, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
2 tablespoons finely chopped basil
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Rice or quinoa
Arugula or greens
Basil vinaigrette
Parmesan cheese

How to Make Lemon Herb Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, shallot, garlic, parsley, basil, lemon zest, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Using your hands or a spoon, work the mixture until evenly combined.
Step 4: Using an ice cream scoop or large cookie scoop, scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture into your palms and roll it into a ball. Place the ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the rest of the mixture, spacing the meatballs out onto the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake the meatballs for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until cooked through.
Step 6: Serve with rice or quinoa, arugula, a drizzle of basil vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The meatballs are also great with pasta, stuffed in a pita, with potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Herb Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to finely chop your herbs for the best flavor.
To prevent dryness, don’t overmix the meatball mixture.
Use an ice cream scoop for uniform meatballs that cook evenly.
If you want to add a tangy flavor, try mixing in some lemon juice.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Herb Meatballs

These Lemon Herb Meatballs are incredibly versatile. They shine in a bowl with quinoa and steamed veggies, making a wholesome meal. Alternatively, serve them on a bed of arugula with a lemon garlic vinaigrette for a refreshing salad. For a Mediterranean twist, pair them with a side of roasted vegetables and a dollop of tzatziki sauce. These options not only complement the meatballs but also keep your meals light and healthy.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Herb Meatballs

After enjoying your Lemon Herb Meatballs, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. These meatballs are great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal quickly during busy weekdays.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Herb Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Herb Meatballs?

The secret lies in using fresh herbs and not overmixing the meatball mixture. Make sure to combine the ingredients just until mixed for tender meatballs. The zesty lemon also adds a wonderful flavor that makes these meatballs stand out!

Can I make Lemon Herb Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect for meal prep or when you have guests, as you can make them in advance and simply bake before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Herb Meatballs?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your ingredients are fresh and don’t overhandle the meat mixture. This keeps the meatballs tender and prevents them from becoming dense. Also, remember to season well to enhance the flavors!

Variations of Lemon Herb Meatballs You Can Try

There are numerous variations to explore with these Lemon Herb Meatballs. You can use ground chicken for a different flavor profile or add feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist. If you want a bolder flavor, try incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary. Experimenting with spices can also lead to delightful results!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Korean BBQ Meatballs or Creamy Potato Soup. If you’re interested in healthy meal prep ideas, visit our Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls recipe. Don’t forget to explore our latest recipes for more inspiration!

Delicious Lemon Herb Meatballs for Healthy Dinners

Author: basmer
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Tender baked lemon herb meatballs made with ground turkey, fresh herbs, and lemon zest. Light, flavorful, and perfect for bowls, salads, or easy weeknight dinners.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko, cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, shallot, garlic, parsley, basil, lemon, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Using your hands or a spoon, work the mixture until evenly combined.
Using an ice cream scoop or large cookie scoop, scoop about two tablespoons of the mixture into your palms and roll it into a ball. Place the ball on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the rest of the mixture, spacing the meatballs out onto the baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Bake the meatballs for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until cooked through.
Serve with rice or quinoa, arugula, a drizzle of basil vinaigrette, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The meatballs are also good with pasta, stuffed in a pita, with potatoes, or roasted vegetables.