Turkey meatballs with tomato sauce

Turkey meatballs with tomato sauce: a delicious and healthy recipe for the whole family

The discovery of meatballs is a culinary journey that traverses the history and culture of many peoples. This versatile dish has evolved over time, becoming a symbol of conviviality and family meals. Whether we are talking about fried, baked, or boiled meatballs, each variant has its charm. In today's recipe, we focus on turkey meatballs, accompanied by a fresh tomato sauce, flavored with garlic and basil, perfect for a healthy and comforting meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 250 g ground turkey
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 1 small onion
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried basil

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meatballs
In a large bowl, add the ground turkey. Peel and crush two cloves of garlic, adding them to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It is important not to overdo it with the salt, as the tomato sauce will also add a salty note. Wet your hands with water to form the meatballs more easily. Roll small portions of meat between your palms, shaping them into balls. Place them on a well-heated grill pan to achieve a golden and delicious crust.

2. Preparing the tomato sauce
Start by boiling water in a pot. Meanwhile, remove the stems from the tomatoes. When the water starts to boil, add the tomatoes and let them boil for 3-4 minutes. This process will help with peeling them. After boiling, remove them and transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking. After 3 minutes, peel the tomatoes easily.

3. Preparing the sauce
Chop the peeled tomatoes into small cubes. Peel and crush the other two cloves of garlic and chop the onion. In a bowl, mix the tomatoes, crushed garlic, and onion. Add a teaspoon of mustard, a splash of olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt, pepper, and basil. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Finalizing the dish
Heat a large pan and add the turkey meatballs, cooking them until golden on all sides. Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs and let them simmer together for 10 minutes, so the flavors blend perfectly. This step is essential, as the sauce will add juiciness to the meatballs.

5. Serving
Serve the meatballs hot, covered with tomato sauce, either on a platter or directly on plates. You can add some fresh basil leaves for a decorative touch and extra flavor. These meatballs are delicious alongside a serving of mashed potatoes, pasta, or even a fresh salad.

Practical tips:
- If you want a lower-calorie option, you can bake the meatballs in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through.
- To add a touch of originality, you can incorporate herbs like parsley, dill, or oregano into the meat mixture.
- If you have leftover tomato sauce, it can also be used for other dishes, such as pasta or pizza.

Nutritional benefits:
Turkey meat is an excellent choice for a healthy diet, being rich in protein and low in fat. Tomatoes are full of antioxidants, such as lycopene, which helps maintain heart health. Garlic not only adds a wonderful flavor but also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen turkey meat? Yes, make sure to completely thaw it before using it to avoid an unpleasant texture.
- What other sauces can accompany the meatballs? You can try a yogurt sauce with garlic, a mayonnaise sauce with mustard, or even a sweet chili sauce.
- Can I make the meatballs in advance? Absolutely! The meatballs can be cooked and then stored in the fridge or frozen. Reheating them is easy in the oven or in a pan.

A personal note: Turkey meatballs with tomato sauce are a dish that reminds me of family meals, where each member brought something to the table. Whether it was meatballs, pasta, or salads, each recipe had a story, and every meal was a celebration. These meatballs represent not just a delight but also a way to bring loved ones together around the table.

I wish you happy cooking and to enjoy every bite of these turkey meatballs with tomato sauce!