Lemon Herb Turkey Meatball Orzo Casserole: A Springtime Celebration in Every Bite
As the vibrant colors of spring begin to paint the world anew, there’s no better time to refresh your palate with light and flavorful dishes that celebrate the season’s bounty. At Revivify Lean Clinic, we believe in nourishing both body and soul with wholesome meals that delight the senses. And what better way to welcome spring than with our Lemon Herb Turkey Meatball Orzo Casserole—a dish that’s as comforting as it is invigorating?
Crafted with care by our culinary experts, this recipe combines lean turkey meatballs, zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and hearty orzo pasta to create a symphony of flavors that will transport you to sun-kissed Mediterranean shores with every bite. Here’s how to recreate this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen:
Recipe: Lemon Herb Turkey Meatball Orzo Casserole
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Meatballs:
– 1 lb lean ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole:
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 lemon (zest and juice)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the turkey meatballs: ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the turkey mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the uncooked orzo pasta, low-sodium chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped spinach, chopped parsley, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the orzo mixture over the turkey meatballs in the casserole dish, making sure the pasta is evenly distributed.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the turkey meatballs are cooked through and the orzo is tender.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering with loved ones or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, our Lemon Herb Turkey Meatball Orzo Casserole is sure to be a hit. With its harmonious blend of flavors, nutritious ingredients, and comforting appeal, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring and all the culinary delights it brings.
At Revivify Lean Clinic, we’re committed to helping you embrace a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Join us in celebrating the season with a meal that’s as vibrant and refreshing as the world outside your window.
