Spaghetti and meatballs is such a simple, classic dish. It’s quick and easy and a favorite among many people. The only problem is that it’s not exactly the ideal choice when you’re trying to eat light. Now, I’m a firm believer in everything in moderation – life is too short to deprive yourself of good food!
That being said, sometimes I like to adapt the traditional version of this meal by replacing the pasta with spaghetti squash (so yummy!) and using healthy turkey meatballs instead of ground beef. I find that beef tends to be greasier and heavier, even if using extra lean. The healthy turkey meatballs are just as juicy and delicious but easier to digest and lighter… so you can almost rationalize adding a couple of more on your plate.
Healthy Turkey Meatballs
The healthy turkey meatballs are just as juicy and delicious but easier to digest and lighter. I also used spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey (minced turkey)- 1 large green onions (scallions or green shallots) - diced (see note)
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon Herbes de Provence (usually Marjoram, thyme, rosemary, oregano and sometimes lavender)
- ½ tablespoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 medium egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In an electric mixer on the lowest setting or by hand, mix ground turkey with the remaining ingredients until combined.
- Using an ice cream scoop, roll into balls by hand and place on baking trays lined with parchment paper.
- Cook for 30-35 minutes or until the thermometer reads 165°F.
Notes
- You can use 1/2 onion if you don’t have any shallots.
- This recipe is easy to double and freezes well, so you can make a whole batch ahead of time and take out individual portions on busy weeknights.
Nutrition
Calories: 37kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 6gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 21mgSodium: 144mgPotassium: 81mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 84IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.4mg
How did this recipe turn out for you?We’re eager to hear your thoughts!
