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