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Easy Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta
Alyssa

Easy Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta

Spicy Easy Harissa Meatballs with creamy whipped feta. A bold, flavorful main dish or appetizer that's perfect for any occasion.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Meatballs: 1 bag 22 oz frozen turkey bacon meatballs (or homemade) - These provide the protein and form the foundation of the dish.
  • Bell Peppers: 2 bell peppers sliced - Their sweetness balances the spice from the harissa.
  • Zucchini: 1-2 zucchini sliced - This veggie adds texture and nutrition and is a great source of vitamins.
  • Harissa Paste: 2 tbsp - This is the star of the show bringing heat and flavor.
  • Olive Oil: To taste - Essential for roasting and helping to convey the harissa’s flavor while keeping the meatballs moist.
  • Garlic Powder: To taste - Adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed to taste - Brightens and elevates the entire dish.
  • Salt: To taste - Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
For the Whipped Feta:
  • Feta: 6 oz - Rich and tangy it’s the perfect base for the creamy topping.
  • Cream Cheese or Sour Cream/Plain Yogurt: 1-2 oz - This adds creaminess to the feta, balancing the flavors.
  • Garlic: 1 clove - Fresh garlic provides a wonderful aromatic quality.
Additionally, you’ll want some Extras to enhance your meal:
  • Hummus: 1 cup - A delightful addition that adds creaminess and flavor.
  • Pitas: 6 - Perfect for scooping and wrapping the delicious filling.
  • Kalamata Olives: 1/4 cup - Their briny flavor is a welcome complement to the savory meatballs.
  • Lemon: 1 cut into wedges - For an extra burst of freshness when serving.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C): A hot oven will give your vegetables a nice roast and enhance their natural sweetness.
  2. Prepare the bell peppers: On a large sheet pan, toss the 2 sliced bell peppers with a drizzle of olive oil and a generous pinch of salt. Ensure they are evenly coated for optimal roasting.
  3. Coat the meatballs: In a bowl, combine the harissa paste, a splash of olive oil, the juice of half a lemon, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed. Add the 22 oz of frozen turkey bacon meatballs to the harissa mixture, coating each meatball thoroughly with the spicy marinade.
  4. Arrange everything on the sheet pan: Place the coated meatballs on the sheet pan alongside the bell peppers, ensuring they have some space to roast evenly.
  5. Bake: Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the vegetables are tender.
  6. Add zucchini: Slice 1-2 zucchini and add them to the pan mid-way through the roasting time. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast everything for an additional 10 minutes.
  7. Broil for extra browning: For a delightful finish, switch to broiler mode and broil the pan for about 5 minutes, or until everything is beautifully browned and charred at the edges. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
  8. Prepare the whipped feta: While the meatballs and veggies are roasting, blend 6 oz of feta, 1-2 oz of cream cheese (or sour cream/plain yogurt), and 1 clove of garlic in a food processor. Blend until creamy and smooth. If it seems too thick, you can add a little water or olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
  9. Serve: On a large serving platter, arrange the roasted veggies and meatballs with 1 cup of hummus, the whipped feta, 6 pitas, 1/4 cup of kalamata olives, and lemon wedges. Dig in and enjoy this flavorful meal! 🍽️