Description
Tender, juicy meatballs served with fluffy rice and colorful roasted vegetables — a hearty, balanced meal full of flavor and comfort, perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and lamb)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying or brushing)
- 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for veggies)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs or lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, but do not overmix.
- Form into small meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches each) and place them on the baking tray. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- On the same tray or a separate one, toss the chopped zucchini, bell pepper, carrot, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Roast meatballs and vegetables together for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until meatballs are browned and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook rice: rinse well, then combine with water or broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until fluffy.
- Serve the meatballs over a bed of rice with roasted veggies on the side.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Serve with tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
- You can roast the meatballs in an air fryer at 190°C (375°F) for 12–14 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking / Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean