Whole Grain Quinoa Meatballs

Whole Grain Quinoa Meatballs

Ingredients

1 lb 90% or leaner ground beef or mix half ground turkey

¾ cup cooked quinoa (frozen or from scratch)

¼ cup diced onion

¼ cup grated carrot

¼ cup grated zucchini

2 tbsp. low sugar ketchup

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tbsp. low sodium soy sauce

½ tsp. ground black pepper

¼ tsp. oregano

¼ tsp. thyme

¼ tsp. paprika

¼ tsp. basil

1 egg, lightly beaten

Method: 

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients until well combined. Shape into 16 balls and transfer to the prepared baking sheet. Roast until cooked through and golden brown, 15 to 17 minutes. Serve hot and portion out for later use.

(*Note: To cook quinoa, bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small pot. Pour in ½ cup quinoa, cover and simmer until water is absorbed, 10 to 12 minutes. Set aside off of the heat for 10 minutes then fluff with a fork. Makes about 1 1/2 cups. Use 3/4 cup in this recipe, and reserve the remaining for another use.)

Nutritional Info: 

Per Serving (2 to 3 meatballs): 150 calories (45 from fat), 5g total fat, 2g saturated fat, 75mg cholesterol, 470mg sodium, 8g carbohydrates, (1 g dietary fiber, 2g sugar), 17g protein. Serves 6, Makes 16-18 balls.

Optional Swaps

-Decrease sodium content by substituting in more herbs and spices for added flavor

-Substitute ketchup for no salt added tomato sauce

-Serve with brown rice instead of pasta

You Might Also Enjoy...

Home Remedies for Heartburn

Heartburn can make you feel miserable, but learning a few home remedies can help you prevent what triggers it and also help you manage it. Here, we provide some simple ways you can give yourself the relief you need.

Hydration After Bariatric Surgery

After bariatric surgery, you feel full quicker, which can cause you to forget about getting your fluids in. Keep reading to find out the importance of hydration after your surgery and learn how it can also boost your weight loss success.

What Is a Gastric Sleeve?

Are you ready to tackle weight loss, once and for all? If so, you might not know where to begin. Here, you’ll find out why the popular gastric sleeve surgery might be your answer.

What to Expect After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Now that you’re ready for gastric bypass surgery, it’s important to understand what lies ahead and how you can play a role in what happens next, including your recovery. Keep reading to learn more.