Description
Experience the delightful crunch of these Crispy Baked Greek Lentil Meatballs, perfectly paired with a creamy tzatziki sauce. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, these lentil-based meatballs are not only healthy but also versatile, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Whip up this easy recipe and treat your taste buds to a culinary journey that promises to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green lentils
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Tzatziki: 1 cup thick yogurt, 1/2 cucumber, grated, 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Rinse green lentils under cold water until clear. In a saucepan, combine lentils with 4 cups of water; bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain excess water and cool slightly.
- Sauté onion and garlic in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Form mixture into small balls (about 2 tablespoons each) and place on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown; flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Serve hot with tzatziki sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg