Long meatball in the oven

Delicious Baked Long Meatballs with Greens Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 4

Who doesn't love meatballs? This classic dish, so versatile and easy to adapt, can become a true delicacy when prepared with love and a little innovation. In this recipe, we step away from the traditional frying method and opt for a healthier version: our meatballs will be baked in the oven, preserving all the rich flavors of fresh ingredients. Additionally, we add plenty of greens, giving them a unique taste and a boost of nutrients.

The Magical Ingredients

1. 1 kg of pork (choose lean meat for a healthier result)
2. 2 bunches of green onions (added for freshness)
3. 2 bunches of green garlic (for an intense flavor)
4. 1 large white onion (finely chopped for texture)
5. 5 cloves of garlic (crushed, for aroma)
6. 1 bunch of dill (finely chopped, for a fragrant taste)
7. 1 bunch of parsley (finely chopped, for a fresh note)
8. Green lovage (optional, added to taste)
9. 3 eggs (to bind the mixture)
10. 2 large potatoes (for added consistency)
11. Salt and pepper (to taste)
12. Olive oil (to drizzle over the meatballs before baking)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the ingredients: Wash all the greens thoroughly. It is essential that they are fresh, as they will contribute to the flavor and color of the meatballs. After washing, drain them well and chop them very finely. This step is crucial to ensure an even distribution of flavors in the mixture.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Finely chop the white onion and garlic. These will add a unique flavor to the meatballs. The green garlic will enhance the taste, while the onion will bring natural sweetness.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork with the previously chopped greens, onion, and garlic. Add the eggs and grated potatoes (these will help bind the mixture and add moisture). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

4. Shaping the meatballs: From the mixture obtained, shape two long meatballs of equal size. These will become our baked meatballs, giving them a unique presentation.

5. Preparing the tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the shaped meatballs on the tray, ensuring there is a little space between them for even baking.

6. Baking: Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil, which will help them brown beautifully and achieve a crispy texture on the outside. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Bake for 45-50 minutes, being careful to reduce the temperature after the first 20 minutes to avoid excessive browning and ensure even cooking.

Serving and Side Dishes

The baked long meatballs go wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, but feel free to experiment! A fresh summer salad or grilled vegetables can provide a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness. These meatballs are delicious even cold, so don’t hesitate to serve them the next day in sandwiches!

Nutritional Information

These meatballs are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Pork provides essential proteins, while the greens add vitamins and minerals. The potatoes contribute carbohydrates for energy. One serving (approximately 2 meatballs) contains about 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Brief History

Meatballs have a long history and are appreciated in many cultures around the world. This recipe pays tribute to culinary traditions, but with a modern and healthy twist. It’s an excellent way to transform leftover meat into a flavorful and colorful dish!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use meat of another type? Yes, you can use beef or chicken, but the taste and texture will vary. Be sure to adjust the seasonings according to the type of meat chosen.

2. How can I make the meatballs less fatty? Use meat with a lower fat content and avoid adding excess oil. Baking is an excellent choice to reduce fat.

3. What other side dishes pair well? These meatballs go wonderfully with a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers, steamed vegetables, or even a cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.

4. Can I freeze the meatballs? Yes! These meatballs can be frozen before or after baking. Make sure to package them well to prevent freezer burn.

Personal Note

These long meatballs are perfect for enjoying with family but also for sharing with friends. I often make them with my kids, and they love to help shape the meatballs. It’s a fun activity that brings us together and turns cooking into a real culinary adventure!

I hope this recipe inspires you to try a healthy version of meatballs! You will surely transform lunch or dinner into a feast of flavors! Enjoy!