Zucchini, eggplant, and tuna meatballs

Zucchini, eggplant, and tuna patties are a delicious and healthy choice, perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends. These patties are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the vegetables and protein-rich tuna. Here’s how you can prepare them step by step for a perfect result.

Total preparation time: 60 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Required ingredients

- 1 large eggplant
- 1 medium zucchini
- 2 eggs
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 green onion
- 2 slices of bread (without crust)
- 100 ml milk
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- 50 g grated cheese
- Breadcrumbs as needed + breadcrumbs for coating
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can of tuna in natural juice (160 g)
- Melted butter or oil for drizzling

Step by step

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by peeling the eggplant and zucchini, then cut them into small cubes. This step is essential for ensuring even cooking. Next, steam the cubes for 6-7 minutes until they become slightly soft. This cooking method preserves the nutrients and flavor of the vegetables.

2. Soaking the bread:
While the vegetables are cooling, take the two slices of bread and soak them in milk for 10 minutes. This step will help achieve a fine texture for the patties.

3. Preparing the mixture:
In a blender, add the eggplant and zucchini cubes, the well-squeezed bread, well-drained tuna, eggs, parsley, peeled and chopped garlic cloves, grated cheese, and chopped green onion. Blend everything until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Don’t rush! Make sure all ingredients are well integrated.

4. Forming the dough:
Transfer the mixture to a plastic bowl and gradually add breadcrumbs until you get a cohesive dough that can be shaped. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s important to taste the mixture to ensure it’s well seasoned.

5. Shaping the patties:
Form larger patties that you will coat in breadcrumbs. This step will give them a crispy and delicious crust. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

6. Baking the patties:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Drizzle the patties with melted butter or oil, then bake for 30 minutes. After the first 15 minutes, turn the patties over, drizzling them again slightly. This will ensure even baking and a golden crust on all sides.

7. Serving:
Once the patties are baked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They are excellent warm but can also be served at room temperature as an appetizer. You can accompany them with a garlic yogurt sauce or a fresh salad.

Useful tips

- Variations: You can add other vegetables to the mixture, such as carrots or bell peppers, for a different flavor. You can also replace the tuna with smoked fish for a more intense taste.
- Storage: These patties can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan.
- Nutrition: These patties are rich in protein due to the tuna and eggs, and the vegetables provide a significant amount of vitamins and minerals. Each serving has approximately 200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, you can experiment with other types of canned fish, such as salmon or sardines.

- What side dishes go well with the patties?
These patties pair wonderfully with a green salad, mashed potatoes, or a rice side dish.

- Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. You can shape them and place them in the freezer on a tray, and when they are completely frozen, transfer them to an airtight container.

Thus, with these zucchini, eggplant, and tuna patties, you will enjoy a tasty, healthy, and easy-to-make meal, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!