Summery Meatball Feast

The star of this vibrant meal prep is undoubtedly the golden-brown baked meatballs. These savory spheres of goodness offer a perfect blend of flavor and texture, making them an ideal centerpiece for a satisfying summer meal. Let’s dive into how to create these delectable morsels and explore the art of crafting the perfect meatball.

The Recipe:

Baked Meatballs

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except olive oil. Mix gently but thoroughly.
3. Form mixture into 12-15 meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Brown meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes total.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

Detailed Preparation:

1. The key to exceptional meatballs lies in the preparation. Start with high-quality ground beef – an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio ensures juicy, flavorful results.
2. Gently mix your ingredients to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to tough meatballs.
3. When shaping, use slightly wet hands to prevent sticking and aim for uniform size for even cooking. The initial pan-searing creates a delicious crust, while finishing in the oven ensures thorough cooking without drying out the meat.

Variations:

1. For Italian-style, add dried oregano and basil to the mix, and serve with marinara sauce.
2. For Greek-inspired version, incorporate minced mint and crumbled feta cheese, serving with tzatziki.
3. To create Asian fusion, mix in grated ginger and green onions, glazing with a soy-based sauce.

Tips:

• Don’t overmix. This can lead to dense, tough meatballs.
• Use a meat thermometer to aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• Allow meatballs to rest for 5 minutes after cooking for juicier results.
• Prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate.
• Make a large batch and freeze uncooked meatballs for future meals.
• Use a small ice cream scoop for uniform sizing.

The Side Dishes:

Steamed Zucchini:

• Slice zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds.
• Steam for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Orzo with Parmesan:

• Cook orzo according to package instructions.
• Drain and toss with grated Parmesan, a splash of olive oil, and chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

Watermelon Cubes:

• Cut a seedless watermelon into 1-inch cubes. For best flavor, chill before serving.

Equipment & Ingredients:

In Amazon, you can purchase the following items to make your very own summery meatball feast:

Equipment:

• Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
• Cast Iron Skillet
• Meat Thermometer
• Stainless Steel Steamer Basket
• Meal Prep Containers
• Microplane Grater

Ingredients:

• Quality Olive Oil
• Seasonings

By combining these delicious components, you create a balanced, satisfying meal that’s perfect for summer dining or meal prepping. The contrast of the hearty meatballs with the light, refreshing sides makes for a feast that’s as nutritious as it is delightful to the palate.