Mediterranean Diet Savory Vegetable Meatballs

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these Savory Vegetable Meatballs, a healthy yet indulgent twist on a classic recipe. Packed with lean ground beef or lamb, nutrient-rich grated zucchini and carrot, and aromatic herbs like fresh parsley and mint, these meatballs are a perfect fit for a balanced Mediterranean diet. The addition of red bell pepper, cumin, and coriander enhances their savory profile, while whole wheat breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil keep them moist and flavorful. Baked to golden perfection, these veggie-infused meatballs are a versatile dish—serve them with a refreshing Greek salad, atop whole grain quinoa, or even in a pita wrap. Quick to prepare and brimming with wholesome ingredients, this recipe will easily become a staple for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Perfect for those seeking a nutritious yet delicious way to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine!

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 g ground beef or lamb
• 1 medium, grated zucchini
• 1 medium, grated carrot
• 0.5 finely chopped red bell pepper
• 0.5 finely chopped red onion
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh mint
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 large egg
• 50 g whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with the grated zucchini, grated carrot, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped red onion.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, dried oregano, ground cumin, and ground coriander to the bowl and mix well.

Step 4

Add the beaten egg and breadcrumbs to the mixture. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are combined thoroughly.

Step 5

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6

Drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs to help them brown and add flavor.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.

Step 8

Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 9

Serve the savory vegetable meatballs with a side of your choice, such as a Greek salad or over whole grain quinoa. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1035.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1954.0

Total Fat 140.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 47.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.7g
Cholesterol 619.5mg	0%
Sodium 5837.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 70.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 14.7g	0%
Total Sugars 20.0g
Protein 104.6g	0%

Vitamin D 53.8IU	0%
Calcium 381.6mg	0%
Iron 24.4mg	0%
Potassium 2627.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 64.4%

Protein: 21.3%

Carbs: 14.3%