Description
Savory “Rustic Meatballs with Vegetable Medley” blend hearty Italian countryside flavors into a comforting meal. Mediterranean herbs and seasonal vegetables complement robust ground meat, creating a delicious harmony perfect for satisfying hunger and warming hearts.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein:
- 800–900 grams (28–32 ounces) of minced meat
- 1 large egg
Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced
- 1 ripe tomato, chopped
- 300–400 grams (10–14 ounces) of green beans, ends trimmed
Seasonings and Herbs:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2–3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of Herbs of Provence or a mix of dried herbs
- 1 handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 20 grams (0.7 ounces) of butter, for cooking
Instructions
- Craft a robust mixture by blending ground meat with aromatic seasonings, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, binding egg, and flour. Gently form uniform-sized spherical meatballs, ensuring consistent shape for even cooking.
- Heat butter in a spacious skillet over medium temperature. Carefully sear meatballs, rotating to achieve a golden-brown exterior on all surfaces. Transfer browned meatballs to a separate plate, preserving their caramelized coating.
- Utilize the same skillet’s residual flavors to sauté remaining onions and carrots until they become translucent and slightly softened. Introduce potatoes, bell peppers, tomatoes, and green beans, allowing vegetables to develop subtle tenderness.
- Reintegrate meatballs into the vegetable landscape. Incorporate tomato paste and Herbs of Provence, creating a rich, harmonious sauce. If mixture appears dry, introduce modest water quantity. Reduce heat, cover, and allow gentle simmering for approximately 20-25 minutes.
- Evaluate seasoning, adjusting with additional salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance overall flavor profile. Ensure meatballs reach optimal internal temperature and vegetables achieve desired tenderness.
- Present the rustic dish piping hot, optionally garnishing with additional chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. Recommend serving immediately to preserve optimal texture and temperature.
Notes
- Meat Selection Flexibility: Choose lean ground beef, turkey, or a mix of meats for different flavor profiles and nutritional variations.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or cornstarch to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Vegetable Swap Potential: Easily substitute vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference without compromising the dish’s overall texture and taste.
- Batch Cooking Friendly: Meatballs freeze exceptionally well, making this recipe perfect for meal prepping and quick weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg