Baked Zucchini Meatballs: A Deliciously Light Appetizer
If you’re looking for a light, savory appetizer that’s full of flavor and easy to make, look no further than these Baked Zucchini Meatballs. Perfectly golden and crisp on the outside, with a soft and cheesy center, these meatballs are ideal for serving at parties, family gatherings, or as a healthy snack. Packed with fresh zucchini, the creamy flavor of primo sale cheese, and seasoned with nutmeg, thyme, and a dash of pepper, these little bites are sure to impress anyone who tries them.
Ingredients for Baked Zucchini Meatballs
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 600g |
| Primo Sale Cheese | 160g |
| Eggs | 55g |
| Breadcrumbs | 130g |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Thyme | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value per serving (1 meatball) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 55 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Instructions to Prepare Baked Zucchini Meatballs
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Prepare the Zucchini:
Begin by washing and drying the zucchinis thoroughly. Cut off both ends of each zucchini, then grate them using a coarse grater to achieve a chunky texture. Once grated, transfer the zucchini to a colander, pressing down with a spoon to remove excess liquid. This step is crucial as it ensures the meatballs don’t turn soggy. -
-
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained zucchini along with the primo sale cheese (grated), eggs, breadcrumbs, a pinch of salt, black pepper, freshly grated nutmeg, and thyme leaves. Mix everything together by hand until the ingredients are well incorporated, forming a moist, sticky mixture. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little extra breadcrumbs until you get the desired consistency. -
Shape the Meatballs:
Take small portions of the mixture—about the size of a walnut—and shape them into little meatballs. You can gently flatten them if you prefer a slightly more patty-like shape, or leave them rounded for a traditional meatball appearance. -
Arrange for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then arrange the meatballs on the sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top of each meatball and lightly salt the surface for extra flavor. -
Bake to Perfection:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Halfway through the baking time, you can flip them to ensure an even golden color on both sides. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the zucchini meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm, either as an appetizer, a side dish, or as a light meal alongside a fresh salad or a dip of your choice. These meatballs can also be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days, making them a great make-ahead option for busy days.
These Baked Zucchini Meatballs are a wholesome, vegetarian-friendly alternative to traditional meatballs, offering a healthy dose of vegetables while still being satisfying and delicious. Perfect for those looking for a lighter option without compromising on flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite on your appetizer table!
Tips for Perfect Zucchini Meatballs
- Squeeze Out the Zucchini Liquid: The key to preventing soggy meatballs is ensuring that you squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini. Use a spoon or your hands to press the zucchini against the colander.
- Cheese Variations: If primo sale cheese is unavailable, feel free to substitute it with another mild cheese, such as ricotta or mozzarella, to achieve a similar creamy texture.
- Seasoning Flexibility: Experiment with different herbs and spices to match your flavor preferences. Fresh basil or oregano can add an aromatic touch, while a bit of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the depth of flavor.
- Making It Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.
Enjoy these Baked Zucchini Meatballs on your next special occasion, or simply as a healthy snack that’s both satisfying and tasty. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday gathering or a family dinner, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!
