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Greek Turkey Meatballs Recipe

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These Greek Turkey Meatballs are a healthy and flavorful take on traditional meatballs, incorporating fresh herbs like oregano, parsley, and spearmint. Made with lean ground turkey, grated zucchini, and whole wheat breadcrumbs, they offer a light yet satisfying dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Versatile cooking options include pan-frying, grilling, or baking, catering to your preferred method.

Ingredients

Meatball Ingredients

  • 1.25 lbs 93% lean ground turkey
  • 1 cup grated zucchini (liquid squeezed out well)
  • 2 slices whole wheat bread (or gluten-free bread)
  • 1/4 cup seasoned whole wheat breadcrumbs (or gluten-free panko)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 red onion (grated)
  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano (chopped; less if using dry)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh spearmint
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • Fresh black pepper (to taste)

Cooking Supplies

  • Olive oil cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Wet the whole wheat bread slices with water and squeeze out the excess moisture. Tear the bread into small pieces and place them into a large mixing bowl to serve as a base for the meatball mixture.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: Add the ground turkey, egg, grated zucchini, seasoned breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated red onion, chopped fresh oregano, parsley, spearmint, kosher salt, and fresh black pepper into the bowl with the bread. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to combine evenly.
  3. Form Meatballs: Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape each into slightly flattened patties about 1/4 cup in size. For best results, place the formed meatballs in the refrigerator to chill before cooking to help them hold their shape.
  4. Cook in Pan: Spray a large nonstick frying pan with olive oil cooking spray and heat over very low heat. Cook the meatballs for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, turning halfway through, until they are fully cooked and browned.
  5. Alternate Cooking Methods: For baking, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the meatballs on a lined baking sheet for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through. For grilling, first clean the grill and spray the grate with oil, then cook meatballs on low heat for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked.

Notes

  • Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from grated zucchini to prevent soggy meatballs.
  • Refrigerating meatballs before cooking helps them hold their shape better.
  • Ground turkey should be 93% lean or higher to keep meatballs moist but healthy.
  • Adjust the amount of fresh herbs to your taste preference.
  • Ensure the internal temperature of meatballs reaches 165°F for safe consumption.