Introduction
Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Pasta is a dish that will make your taste buds dance with its perfect blend of turkey, zucchini, and feta flavors. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and can be made in under 30 minutes. The combination of ground turkey, grated zucchini, and crumbled feta cheese creates a unique flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
The benefits of this dish are numerous, from being a great source of protein to being a versatile meal that can be served with a variety of sides. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Pasta is the perfect choice.
So, let’s dive into the world of Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Pasta and explore what makes this recipe so special. With its savory flavors and mouth-watering aroma, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. You can also try serving it with a side of roasted vegetable quinoa salad for a well-rounded meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out from the rest due to its unique combination of ingredients and flavors. The addition of zucchini and feta cheese gives the meatballs a refreshing twist, while the turkey provides a lean source of protein. The breadcrumbs and egg help to bind the ingredients together, creating a tender and juicy texture.
The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve the meatballs with zucchini pasta, marinara sauce, or even as a sub sandwich. The possibilities are endless, and the flavors will always be delicious. For another delicious and easy-to-make dish, check out our garlic butter turkey meatballs and lemon zucchini noodles recipe.
Whether you’re a foodie, a busy parent, or just someone who loves to cook, this recipe is perfect for you. It’s easy to make, healthy, and flavorful, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 cup grated zucchini
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
When it comes to ingredients, it’s all about finding the right balance of flavors and textures. The ground turkey provides a lean source of protein, while the zucchini adds a refreshing twist. The feta cheese gives the meatballs a tangy flavor, while the breadcrumbs help to bind the ingredients together.
If you’re looking for substitutions, you can try using chicken or beef instead of turkey. You can also use different types of cheese, such as parmesan or mozzarella, to give the meatballs a unique flavor. Just remember to adjust the amount of seasonings accordingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s customizable. You can add your favorite herbs and spices to give the meatballs a personal touch. Some great options include basil, oregano, and thyme. Just remember to use them in moderation to avoid overpowering the dish.
Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need a few basic pieces of equipment. These include a baking sheet, parchment paper, food processor, large bowl, and measuring cups and spoons. You’ll also need a oven to bake the meatballs to perfection.
Make sure to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking the meatballs. This will ensure that they cook evenly and are tender and juicy on the inside.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grind the turkey in a food processor until it’s finely chopped.
- Mix the ground turkey with zucchini and feta in a large bowl until just combined.
- Add any additional desired seasonings to the bowl and mix until a uniform consistency is reached.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each meatball.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Visual Guide & Tips
When forming the meatballs, make sure to handle the mixture gently to avoid compacting it too much. This will help the meatballs to cook evenly and be tender and juicy on the inside.
As the meatballs bake, you’ll notice that they start to brown on the outside. This is a sign that they’re cooking evenly and will be delicious when they’re done.
Once the meatballs are done, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the juices to redistribute and the meatballs to stay moist and flavorful.
Pro Tips & Tricks
To ensure even cooking, make sure to space the meatballs out evenly on the baking sheet. This will help them to cook consistently and be tender and juicy on the inside.
To prevent the meatballs from sticking to the baking sheet, make sure to line it with parchment paper. You can also spray the paper with cooking spray for extra protection.
Another great tip is to don’t overmix the meatball mixture. This will help the meatballs to stay tender and juicy on the inside, rather than becoming dense and dry.
Serving Suggestions/Storage/Variations
Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Pasta can be served with a variety of sides, including marinara sauce, garlic bread, and roasted vegetables. You can also serve them as a sub sandwich or add them to a salad for a healthy and delicious meal.
To store the meatballs, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw them when you’re ready to eat them.
Some great variations of this recipe include adding different types of cheese, such as parmesan or mozzarella, or using different types of meat, such as chicken or beef. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to give the meatballs a personal touch. For a similar recipe, check out our pesto zucchini noodles recipe.
Storage & Freezing
When it comes to storing and freezing the meatballs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to cool the meatballs completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help to prevent moisture from building up and making the meatballs soggy.
To freeze the meatballs, simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer. Once they’re frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to eat the meatballs, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or reheat them in the oven or microwave. You can also add them to your favorite soups or stews for a hearty and delicious meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Nutrition data for this recipe is not available. However, it’s worth noting that the meatballs are a good source of protein and can be made with healthy ingredients to reduce the calorie and fat content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Pasta:
Q: Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use chicken, beef, or pork instead of turkey. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
Q: How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the baking sheet?
A: To prevent the meatballs from sticking, make sure to line the baking sheet with parchment paper. You can also spray the paper with cooking spray for extra protection.
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs for later use?
A: Yes, you can freeze the meatballs for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer. Once they’re frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for later use.
Q: How do I reheat the meatballs?
A: You can reheat the meatballs in the oven or microwave. Simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave on high for 30-60 seconds.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the meatball mixture?
A: Yes, you can add other ingredients to the meatball mixture, such as chopped onions, garlic, or herbs. Just make sure to adjust the amount of seasonings accordingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Q: How do I know when the meatballs are done?
A: The meatballs are done when they’re cooked through and lightly browned on the outside. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be at least 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Pasta is a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its unique combination of turkey, zucchini, and feta flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try! Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes if you make it. I’d love to see your creations and hear your feedback.
Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your favorite recipes with me! Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes!
Turkey, Zucchini, and Feta Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grind the turkey in a food processor until it's finely chopped.
- Mix the ground turkey with zucchini and feta in a large bowl until just combined.
- Add any additional desired seasonings to the bowl and mix until a uniform consistency is reached.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each meatball.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.