Mediterranean Delights: Easy Chicken Meatballs with Greek Salad

Origins

This recipe draws inspiration from the Mediterranean region, specifically Greece. Greek cuisine is known for its fresh and vibrant flavors, and this dish incorporates traditional ingredients to create a delicious and healthy meal. The combination of easy chicken meatballs and a refreshing Greek salad brings together the best of Greek flavors and textures.

Benefits Summary

This dish plan offers a range of benefits for a healthy lifestyle. The easy chicken meatballs are made with lean ground chicken, providing a good source of protein while being lower in fat compared to traditional meatballs. The Greek salad is packed with fresh vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, which are rich in vitamins and minerals. The addition of feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy element, while the olives provide healthy fats. Overall, this dish plan is a nutritious and satisfying option for a balanced dinner.

Ingredients:

– Easy Chicken Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use almond flour for a low-carb option)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking

– Greek Salad:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the easy chicken meatballs. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
4. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the Greek salad. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve the easy chicken meatballs with the Greek salad on the side.

Pairing Suggestions:

This dish pairs well with some warm pita bread or a side of fluffy quinoa. You can also serve it with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Values:

Shopping List:

Special Tip:

To add a burst of freshness to the Greek salad, consider adding some chopped fresh mint leaves. The mint will complement the other flavors and add a delightful aroma to the dish.

Summary

This Mediterranean-inspired dinner featuring easy chicken meatballs and a refreshing Greek salad is a winning combination. The lean ground chicken meatballs are packed with flavor and pair perfectly with the vibrant and