Description
These Mediterranean meatballs are tender, aromatic, and filled with fresh herbs and warm spices. They bring together the comforting texture of classic meatballs with vibrant Mediterranean flavors—garlic, lemon zest, parsley, mint, cumin, and paprika. They’re incredibly versatile and can be served with rice, salads, wraps, or simple roasted vegetables. What I love most is how quickly they come together, making them perfect for busy nights or a relaxed weekend dinner. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh herbs, you get a dish that tastes bright, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or a mix of beef and lamb
- Grated onion
- Garlic, grated
- Fresh parsley and mint
- Breadcrumbs or panko
- Egg
- Lemon zest
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Spices: cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon
Instructions
- Combine onion, garlic, herbs, and spices in a mixing bowl.
- Add the meat and gently fold everything together.
- Mix in the egg, breadcrumbs, and lemon zest.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the meatballs until golden and cooked through, turning occasionally.
- Let them rest before serving.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, avoid overmixing the meat. You can also chill the meatballs before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main dish
- Method: Skillet or oven-baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 18–22
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 355mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg