Embark on a culinary journey with our Garlic Butter Meatballs with Lemon Zoodles, a dish that promises a delightful fusion of flavors. This recipe pairs succulent meatballs, richly seasoned and pan-seared to perfection, with the light and tangy freshness of lemon-infused zucchini noodles. Drizzled with a decadent garlic butter sauce, this dish strikes a perfect balance between indulgent and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for any meal that seeks to impress and satisfy.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 4-5 meatballs with zoodles
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 35g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
Ingredients
- Meatballs:
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 50g (1.7 oz) breadcrumbs
- 30g (1 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
- 5g (1 tsp) garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for frying
- Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 15g (1 tbsp) fresh parsley, chopped
- Zoodles:
- 4 large zucchinis, spiralized
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix together ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 16-20 meatballs. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook meatballs until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and parsley, then return meatballs to the pan, coating them in the sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Prepare the Zoodles: Toss spiralized zucchini with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Serve raw for a crisp texture, or sauté quickly in a separate pan for 1-2 minutes for a softer consistency.
- Assemble the Dish: Divide zoodles among plates, top with meatballs and drizzle generously with garlic butter sauce.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For the juiciest meatballs, mix the ingredients until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Adding lemon zest to the zoodles introduces a refreshing citrus note that perfectly complements the rich garlic butter sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour to the butter and garlic before adding the lemon juice, creating a roux.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter version of this dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meatballs.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
As you savor the last bite of the Garlic Butter Meatballs with Lemon Zoodles, let the rich flavors and contrasting textures remind you of the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in harmony. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also inspires a sense of culinary adventure, perfect for a weeknight feast or a special gathering. Here's to creating memorable meals that bring joy and comfort to your table!