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Meatballs have long been a beloved staple in various culinary traditions around the globe. From Italian spaghetti and meatballs to Swedish meatballs served with lingonberry sauce, this versatile dish can be adapted to suit any palate. The beauty of meatballs lies in their ability to absorb flavors and spices, making them a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Whether you prefer them spicy, savory, or sweet, meatballs can be tailored to fit any meal or occasion.

Baked Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Yogurt Dip

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Baked Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Yogurt Dip, a healthy meal perfect for any occasion! These flavorful meatballs are made with lean ground turkey and complemented by a creamy, tangy dip that brightens every bite. Packed with nutrients and easy to prepare, this recipe is ideal for family dinners or appetizers at gatherings. Enjoy the blend of spices and fresh ingredients while creating a satisfying and guilt-free delight.

Ingredients
  

For the Turkey Meatballs:

1 pound ground turkey

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunchy texture)

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 egg, beaten

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

For the Lemon Yogurt Dip:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon honey (optional for added sweetness)

Pinch of salt

Fresh dill or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients together gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

      Shape the Meatballs: With lightly greased hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into meatballs, aiming for a size of about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is about an inch of space between each one.

        Drizzle with Olive Oil: To enhance the meatballs’ browning during baking, lightly drizzle the tops with olive oil.

          Bake the Meatballs: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. They should be fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a nice golden color.

            Prepare the Lemon Yogurt Dip: While the meatballs bake, create the lemon yogurt dip. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, mix in the honey. Stir until everything is smooth and evenly combined. Taste and adjust with more lemon juice or honey as desired.

              Serve: Once the meatballs are beautifully baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve the warm meatballs accompanied by the zesty lemon yogurt dip on the side. For an attractive finish, garnish with fresh dill or mint leaves if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4-6