Chickpea Meatballs

Nothing brings me more joy than making Chickpea Meatballs on a cozy evening. One chilly night, I decided to experiment with some pantry staples and transform humble chickpeas into something special. The aroma that filled my kitchen was simply irresistible! As I rolled the mixture into little balls, I couldn’t help but think about how versatile these little delights could be. You can enjoy them in a warm pita, atop a fresh salad, or even on their own as a snack. Every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition, and they’re so easy to whip up for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, Chickpea Meatballs are sure to impress.

What You Need for Chickpea Meatballs

For these Chickpea Meatballs, we’re using a delightful blend of ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The star of the show, of course, is the chickpeas, which provide a hearty base. Pairing them with fresh zucchini, carrots, and feta cheese adds flavor and texture. You’ll find that each ingredient plays a crucial role in making these meatballs a hit!

• 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed – These are the foundation of our meatballs, offering protein and fiber.
• 1/2 cup shredded zucchini – Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 cup shredded carrot – Gives a hint of color and natural sweetness.
• 1/2 cup feta cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a salty kick.
• 1/4 cup diced red onion – Provides a nice crunch and flavor depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor profile significantly.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley – Fresh herbs brighten up the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest – A touch of citrus lifts the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for flavor enhancement.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of heat.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings an aromatic touch.
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs – Binds the mixture together and adds texture.
• Avocado or olive oil spray – For a crispy exterior.
• Cauliflower rice or rice (can use quinoa) – A base for serving.
• Arugula or mixed greens – Freshness to the bowl.
• Tzatziki sauce – A classic pairing that complements the meatballs.
• Pickled red onions – Adds a tangy crunch.
• Chopped cucumber – Refreshing and crunchy.
• Chopped tomatoes – Juicy and vibrant.
• Tahini Dressing – A creamy finishing touch.
• Feta cheese – For an additional sprinkle of flavor.

Making Chickpea Meatballs

Creating Chickpea Meatballs is a fun and rewarding process. Once you have all your ingredients prepped, it’s just a matter of mixing and baking. Let’s dive into the steps to make these delicious meatballs!

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This is an important step, as a hot oven will ensure that your meatballs get that lovely golden brown color. While the oven is heating, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the chickpeas, zucchini, carrots, feta cheese, red onion, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and oregano. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and mostly smooth. You want a consistency that holds together but still has some texture from the veggies.

3. Next, add the panko breadcrumbs to the food processor. Pulse a few times until just mixed in. This helps bind the ingredients without overworking the mixture.

4. Now, it’s time to shape the mixture into balls! Take about 1 and a half tablespoons of the mixture and roll it between your hands to form a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each one.

5. Once you’ve formed all the balls, generously spray them with avocado or olive oil spray. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior we all love. You can also lightly brush them with oil if you prefer.

6. Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 18 to 23 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when the bottoms are golden brown and the outsides are slightly crispy.

7. While the meatballs are baking, prepare your serving bowls. Start with a base of rice or cauliflower rice and add a handful of fresh arugula or mixed greens.

8. When the meatballs are done, carefully remove them from the oven. They should be warm and fragrant! Top your rice and greens with the freshly baked meatballs.

9. Finish your bowls by adding a swirl of tzatziki sauce, a sprinkle of pickled red onions, chopped cucumber, and chopped tomatoes. For an extra touch, drizzle some tahini dressing over the top and add a few extra crumbles of feta cheese.

10. Enjoy your delicious Chickpea Meatballs fresh out of the oven! They’re perfect on their own or as part of a larger spread.

Variations to Try

If you love Chickpea Meatballs, you’ll be thrilled to know there are endless variations you can try. Here are some ideas to elevate your meatball experience!

• Cheesy Variation: Add extra feta cheese or try a different cheese like parmesan for a richer flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the mixture for a kick.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill to give your meatballs a unique flavor profile.
• Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian twist and serve with rice noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
• Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese and choose a vegan cheese alternative or simply add more vegetables.

What Complements This Chickpea Meatballs

When serving Chickpea Meatballs, there are plenty of delicious sides and accompaniments to consider. Here are some ideas:

• Fresh Salads: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light dressing pairs beautifully with these meatballs.
• Whole Grain Options: Serve with brown rice, quinoa, or even whole-grain pita for added nutrition.
• Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers make a colorful addition to the plate.
• Middle Eastern Flavors: Consider serving with a side of hummus and pita chips for a fun appetizer spread.
• Occasions: These meatballs are great for casual dinners, meal prep, or even parties. They can be served warm or cold, making them perfect for any gathering.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, making them a fantastic option for meal prep!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Chickpea Meatballs are not just a fantastic alternative to traditional meatballs; they are a delightful dish that everyone can enjoy. Their versatility, nutrition, and satisfying flavors make them a perfect addition to any meal plan. I encourage you to try making them tonight and discover just how delicious and easy they can be!

Chickpea Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Chickpea Meatballs are a delicious blend of flavors and nutrients. Crispy on the outside and packed with wholesome ingredients, they make for an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love. Try making them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 16 meatballs

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 15 oz can chickpeas drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup shredded zucchini
• 1/2 cup shredded carrot
• 1/2 cup feta cheese
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 Avocado or olive oil spray for spraying
• 1 Cauliflower rice or rice (can use quinoa)
• 1 Arugula or mixed greens for serving
• 1 Tzatziki sauce for serving
• 1 Pickled red onions for serving
• 1 Chopped cucumber for serving
• 1 Chopped tomatoes for serving
• 1 Tahini Dressing for drizzling
• 1 feta cheese for sprinkling

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In the bowl of a food processor, add the chickpeas, zucchini, carrots, feta cheese, red onion, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and oregano. Pulse until well combined and mostly smooth. Add the panko breadcrumbs and pulse just a few times until mixed in.
3. Roll the mixture into balls, about 1 and a half tablespoons per ball. Place on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Spray generously with oil spray.
4. Bake for 18 to 23 minutes or until the balls are golden brown on the bottom and slightly crispy on the outside.
5. To assemble bowls, add rice and greens to a bowl. Top with the chickpea meatballs, tzatziki, pickled red onions, cucumber, and tomato. Drizzle with tahini dressing and sprinkle with feta cheese. You can also enjoy the chickpea meatballs in a pita sandwich, over greens, or plain!

Notes

• Storing in the fridge: Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
• How to Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs on a baking sheet for 1 to 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.