Turkey & Spinach Meatballs

 TURKEY & SPINACH MEATBALLS 

Printable Recipe

• 1 lb lean ground turkey 
• 1 cup fresh baby spinach 
• 1 yellow or green Italian squash, chopped 
• 1/2 onion, diced 
• 1/2 slice whole wheat bread, crumbed 
• 1 sprig fresh parsley, chopped 
• 3 garlic cloves, diced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 
• 1 teaspoon onion powder 
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1 teaspoon salt & pepper to taste 
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 4 servings spaghetti, cooked

1. In a food processor, add diced onions, chopped squash, spinach, garlic, & parsley. 
Pulse until finely chopped.

2. In a large mixing bowl, add turkey, spinach puree from processor, bread crumbs, & all seasonings. Mix by hand until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Using a large spoon, scoop turkey mixture & roll into an even ball. Place on foil.

3. Heat olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add meatballs & brown 2-3 minutes on each side.

4. In a large pot, bring your favorite marinara sauce to a light boil. I personally like a homemade sauce or Trader Joe's Three Cheese Marinara. 

Stir the meatballs into the sauce, cover & simmer on low for 20 minutes.

5. When sauce is done, toss with cooked spaghetti & serve warm.

Plate Finished Product

STORY BEHIND THE DISH

There is something about comfort food like spaghetti and meatballs that makes dinner so amazing. The only problem is the massive amount of carbs & calories! I created these meatballs in hope of decreasing the calorie intake, yet keeping the classic comfort taste. I think they are a perfect twist on make a comfort classic on the healthier side.

MODIFICATIONS/Whole30

This recipe can be modified to your food needs. If you want to make this a Paleo approved, Whole30, or Gluten Free dish, you can remove the breadcrumbs & use spaghetti squash or zucchini in place of the pasta. I like these meatballs with or without the spinach, the zucchini holds in the moisture & still makes for a great meatball. You can also use fresh herbs which will make this dish even more delicious! If you want to add some heat add a 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. If use no pepper at all if spicy is not your thing ;)