Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for the meatballs and prepare another baking sheet or a large roasting pan for the vegetables.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should have about 15-20 meatballs.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetable Medley
- Toss Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced carrots, chopped zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs until everything is evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs and Vegetables
- Bake Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
- Roast Vegetables: At the same time, roast the vegetables for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.
Step 5: Serve
- Combine and Serve: You can either mix the meatballs with the roasted vegetables directly in the roasting pan or serve them separately on plates. Drizzle with additional olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Conclusion
Rustic Meatballs with Vegetable Medley is a versatile, flavorful dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s perfect for a family dinner and can be customized based on seasonal vegetables or dietary preferences. Serve this meal on its own for a low-carb option, or pair it with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to make it even more satisfying. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this homemade meal!