Easy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs: A Healthy Twist on a Classic
Delight in these Easy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs, a wholesome and hearty alternative to traditional meatballs that are perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and meat-lovers alike. Packed with protein and flavor, these lentil meatballs are not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a meatless Monday option or just want to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe is a great choice. Here’s how to make these delicious lentil meatballs from scratch.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked lentils (brown or green)
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1 pinch black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (up to 3/4 cup as needed for texture)
Directions
Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Making the Mixture
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor or high-speed blender, add the cooked lentils, egg (or flax egg), diced onion, minced garlic, nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Pulse the mixture until well mixed but still retaining some texture to ensure the meatballs hold together with a pleasing texture.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Gradually incorporate whole wheat breadcrumbs into the mixture by pulsing. Start with 1/2 cup and add more, up to 3/4 cup, until the mixture reaches a consistency that is moist yet firm enough to hold its shape. The mixture should not be too wet.
Forming and Baking the Meatballs
- Form Meatballs: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and use your hands to roll it into balls. Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake the meatballs for 30-35 minutes. Turn them halfway through the baking time to ensure they brown evenly and achieve a firm, golden exterior.
Serving
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delicious lentil meatballs with your favorite pasta or a bed of rice, and top with your sauce of choice. They pair beautifully with a classic marinara sauce, a creamy alfredo, or even a spicy arrabbiata.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: 150 kcal per serving
- Servings: Makes 15 meatballs
Conclusion
These Easy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs are a fantastic way to enjoy a familiar favorite without the meat. They are not only easy to make but also versatile, delicious, and perfect for incorporating into a variety of dishes. Ideal for meal prep or a family dinner, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the richness and health benefits of lentils in this simple yet flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and support your dietary choices.
Print
Easy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 15 1x
Description
Easy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs offer a delightful and nourishing alternative to traditional meatballs, packed with the wholesome goodness of lentils and aromatic herbs. These meatballs blend the robust flavors of Italian seasoning and nutritional yeast with the hearty texture of lentils, making them not only a nutritious choice but also a flavorful one.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups cooked lentils (brown or green)
1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
1 pinch black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (up to 3/4 cup as needed for texture)
Instructions
Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Blend Ingredients: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine lentils, egg, onion, garlic, nutritional yeast, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Pulse until mixed well but still retaining some texture.
Add Breadcrumbs: Incorporate whole wheat breadcrumbs by pulsing them into the mixture. If the mixture feels too wet, gradually add more breadcrumbs up to 3/4 cup until the desired consistency is achieved.
Form Meatballs: Using clean hands, scoop 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll into balls. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, turning the meatballs halfway through, until they are golden brown and firm.
Serve: Enjoy the lentil meatballs with your favorite pasta or rice, accompanied by a sauce of your choice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 150