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Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

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4.3 from 59 reviews

This vibrant recipe features spicy Harissa meatballs roasted alongside colorful bell peppers and zucchini. Finished with a creamy whipped feta sauce and served with pita, hummus, kalamata olives, and lemon wedges, this dish combines bold flavors and simple cooking for a perfect Mediterranean-inspired meal in under an hour.

Ingredients

Meatballs and Vegetables

  • 1 (22-ounce) bag of store-bought frozen meatballs (or homemade if preferred)
  • 2 bell peppers (1 yellow, 1 red), sliced
  • 1-2 zucchinis, sliced into half moons
  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste
  • Olive oil, for drizzling
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt, to taste

Whipped Feta Sauce

  • 6-ounce container feta cheese
  • 1-2 ounces cream cheese or sour cream (or plain yogurt as substitute)
  • 1 clove garlic

Serving

  • 1 cup hummus
  • 6 pita breads, cut into wedges
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Sheet Pan Preparation: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Arrange sliced bell peppers on one side of a large sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. In a small bowl, combine harissa paste with a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder until a spreadable sauce forms.
  2. Coat and Bake Meatballs: Toss your meatballs with the harissa sauce if they are pre-cooked, or brush the sauce directly onto raw meatballs placed in the center of the sheet pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Add Zucchini and Continue Roasting: Add the sliced zucchini to the sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast everything together for an additional 10 minutes.
  4. Broil for Browning (Optional): For extra browning and crispiness, broil the vegetables and meatballs for about 5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
  5. Prepare Whipped Feta: Using a food processor, chopper, or blender, blend the feta cheese, cream cheese (or substitute), and garlic until you achieve a thick, creamy sauce with a smooth consistency.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the roasted meatballs and vegetables alongside a dollop of hummus and the whipped feta sauce. Add pita wedges, kalamata olives, and lemon wedges for added flavor and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful Mediterranean feast.

Notes

  • Use homemade meatballs if time allows for a fresher taste.
  • Adjust the amount of harissa paste depending on your preferred spice level.
  • Broiling at the end enhances browning and texture but is optional.
  • The whipped feta sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated.
  • Substitute cream cheese with sour cream or plain yogurt to adjust creaminess and tang.
  • Serve with pita warmed for a better texture.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/harissa-meatballs-with-whipped-feta-and-roasted-vegetables-recipe/