Name: Lean Turkey Quinoa Meatballs: A Healthy Protein Boost
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; 0.75 cup water; 3 tablespoons chia seeds; 2 medium onions, peeled; 6 large carrots, peeled; 4 stalks celery; 4 cups baby spinach; 6 cloves garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 pounds lean ground turkey; 2.5 cups cooked quinoa; 2 large eggs, beaten; 5 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup reduced-sugar ketchup

Elevate your meatball game with this nourishing recipe! Combining lean ground turkey with the goodness of quinoa and a medley of vegetables, these meatballs offer a delightful, guilt-free indulgence that's perfect for any occasion.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray. (5 minutes)

02

Step

In a bowl, combine water and chia seeds. Stir well and let sit for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even soaking. (15 minutes)

03

Step

Using a food processor, finely chop onions, carrots, celery, spinach, and garlic until finely minced. (10 minutes)

04

Step

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the vegetable mixture until softened, approximately 8 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. (18 minutes)

05

Step

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked quinoa, beaten eggs, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt. Add the chia seed mixture (it should have a gel-like consistency) and the sautéed vegetable mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. (10 minutes)

06

Step

Shape the turkey mixture into approximately 48 meatballs. Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with reduced-sugar ketchup. (15 minutes)

07

Step

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and no longer pink in the center. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should register at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). (25 minutes)