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When you think of comfort food, meatballs often come to mind, evoking memories of hearty meals and family gatherings. However, the traditional meatball can sometimes be heavy and loaded with calories. Enter the Zesty Lemon Herb Turkey Meatballs—a delightful and healthier alternative that brings a refreshing twist to your dinner table. These meatballs are not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor, thanks to the vibrant combination of zesty lemon and fresh herbs.

Lemon Herb Turkey Meatballs

Discover a fresh twist on a classic favorite with Zesty Lemon Herb Turkey Meatballs. Lower in calories and packed with flavor, these meatballs combine lean ground turkey with vibrant herbs and zesty lemon for a healthy meal that’s simple to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, they pair beautifully with whole-grain pasta, fresh salads, or zucchini noodles. Enjoy a delicious, nutritious dish that supports your wellness goals without sacrificing taste!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped

Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Olive oil, for drizzling and cooking

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.

    Combine Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and evenly mixed.

      Shape the Meatballs: With clean hands, scoop a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space in between for even cooking.

        Add Olive Oil and Bake: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the meatballs to enhance moisture and flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through, registering an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

          Rest and Serve: Once done, take the meatballs out of the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes to enhance juiciness. Serve the meatballs alongside lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor, complemented by your choice of marinara sauce or a creamy herb dip.

            Enjoy: For a complete and satisfying meal, pair the meatballs with a fresh side salad, spiralized zucchini noodles, or whole grain pasta for a delightful twist!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Makes approximately 20 meatballs.