Name: Mediterranean Meatballs with Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or lamb; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 egg; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 zucchini, chopped; 2 bell peppers (assorted colors), chopped; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 2–3 tbsp olive oil; 1–2 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional, for topping)

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Mediterranean Meatballs with Roasted Vegetables is a wholesome, flavor-packed dish featuring spiced meatballs paired with a colorful array of roasted vegetables. Infused with herbs and olive oil, this dish brings the warmth and vibrance of Mediterranean cuisine to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a balanced and nutritious option, perfect for lunch or dinner. The meatballs are tender and seasoned with traditional Mediterranean spices, while the roasted vegetables add depth, sweetness, and texture. It’s easy to prepare, meal-prep friendly, and works well for both family meals and elegant gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef or lamb
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped
Ground cumin
Ground coriander
Paprika
Dried oregano
Salt and black pepper
Egg
Breadcrumbs
Zucchini, chopped
Bell peppers, assorted colors, chopped
Red onion, sliced
Cherry tomatoes
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Feta cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine ground meat, garlic, onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.
Form into small meatballs and place on one side of the baking sheet.
On the other side, arrange chopped zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning meatballs halfway through, until meatballs are browned and vegetables are tender.
Drizzle with lemon juice and top with crumbled feta if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and roasting takes around 25 minutes, totaling approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Add eggplant or sweet potatoes to the vegetable mix.
Serve over couscous, quinoa, or rice for a complete meal.
Top with tzatziki, hummus, or a garlic yogurt sauce for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Meatballs can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can form the meatballs up to 24 hours ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Are these meatballs spicy?

No, they are savory and aromatic. Add cayenne or chili flakes if you prefer heat.

Can I cook the meatballs on the stovetop?

Yes, pan-fry them in a little olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked and browned.

Can I grill the vegetables instead of roasting?

Absolutely. Grilling adds a nice charred flavor that complements the meatballs well.

What kind of meat works best?

Ground lamb adds a traditional Mediterranean taste, but beef or a mix of beef and lamb also works wonderfully.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the feta cheese and ensure breadcrumbs are dairy-free.

How do I prevent dry meatballs?

Use enough fat in the meat (like 80/20 ground beef), and don’t overcook. The egg and breadcrumbs help keep them moist.

What sauce pairs well with this dish?

Tzatziki, tahini sauce, or a lemon-garlic yogurt sauce complement the flavors well.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use about one-third the amount if substituting dried for fresh herbs.

Can I add olives or capers?

Yes, chopped olives or a few capers add a salty, briny note that enhances the Mediterranean flavor.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Meatballs with Roasted Vegetables is a nourishing and flavorful dish that celebrates the vibrant ingredients of the region. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with delicious, wholesome ingredients that make it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Mediterranean Meatballs with Roasted Vegetables

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Mediterranean Meatballs with Roasted Vegetables is a flavorful, balanced dish featuring spiced meatballs and a vibrant mix of roasted vegetables, finished with herbs, olive oil, and optional feta cheese.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix ground meat, garlic, onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, egg, and breadcrumbs until well combined.
Form mixture into small meatballs and place them on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
Arrange zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes on the other side of the sheet. Drizzle vegetables with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning meatballs halfway through, until meatballs are browned and vegetables are tender.
Drizzle with lemon juice and top with crumbled feta cheese if using before serving.