Lean-Mean-Meatballs

Anyone who knows my eating habits knows that there are many nights that I just eat cold ground turkey for dinner (and maybe a some peanut butter). I know, that is a weird combination…sometimes I feel bad for my future husband and kids. After a long long day, I don't feel like cooking. Anyway, I have been eating pounds of ground turkey every week for the past few years and it never gets old. I try to do some interesting things with it every now and again, and this meatball recipe is one of my favorites! I have made it more times that I can count, so I have perfected it over the years. (Which really just means I have made it as easy as possible). I swear I’m not lazy, I just don’t have much extra time these days (who does?), and so I try to make my food as quick and healthy as possible.  Here it is folks!

Ingredients:

-2 lbs of Lean Ground Turkey (I use 93/7)

-2 eggs

-1 bag of microwavable quinoa (about 2 cups)

-I use this because it only takes 3:45 seconds in the microwave/you don’t have to dirty another pot/and it is already seasoned (I use the olive oil/salt and pepper flavor).

            -You can get it in the organic freezer section at Kroger.

- A big handful of baby spinach

- Italian Seasoning

- Salt/Pepper

Optional: extra veggies and parmesan cheese

Directions:

1.     Preheat oven to 400 degrees; line 2 baking sheets with aluminum foil and spray liberally with non-stick cooking spray.

2.     Put your quinoa in the microwave and cook for 3:45 seconds. Or if you buy regular quinoa cook according to directions.

3.     Get a large mixing bowl and put ground turkey, spinach, seasonings, eggs, and cooked quinoa in and stir until completely incorporated. I mix it with clean hands, because it is hard to get the ingredients mixed together using a utensil. So, just use what God gave ya!

4.     Now, start making the meatballs. Roll them in your hands and start making rows on your baking sheets. I usually get around 25 meatballs for 2 lbs of turkey. But do what you wish! Your cooking time will vary depending on your oven and the size you make your meatballs.

5.     I place both trays in the oven and put the timer on 12-15 minutes and check them from there. I usually go in 3-5 minute increments.

I hope you all enjoy your Lean-Mean-Meatballs!! These are a great way to incorporate healthy carbs and spinach into your diet! Not to mention, they are easy to pack for lunch and great for leftovers! Let me know how you like them!!

With love and a happy tummy,

-B