Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta
Oh wow, let me tell you, harissa meatballs with whipped feta are a game changer! Imagine sinking your teeth into these little morsels, bursting with flavor, and then you get that creamy, dreamy whipped feta just… melting in your mouth. It’s a whole experience, really! Perfect for that cozy dinner at home or if you’re hosting friends—everyone just dives right in. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Crave It
- The combo of spicy meatballs with cool, creamy feta is just divine…
- It’s super versatile—serve it as a main dish or as appetizers…
- Features a nice kick with the harissa, but you can adjust it!
- Looks gorgeous on a platter, making it a showstopper at gatherings!
- Easy preparation means you can whip it up in no time!
My family fights over the last meatball every time we make this…
What You’ll Need
- Ground beef: 1 pound; I love using a little bit of fat for flavor!
- Ground lamb: 1 pound; it adds a richness that’s just unbeatable…
- Harissa paste: 3 tablespoons; adds that punchy, spicy flavor…
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced; because garlic makes everything better, right?
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped; for that fresh burst of brightness…
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup; they help bind those meatballs together…
- Egg: 1 large; just one will do the trick!
- Salt and pepper: just to taste; season, season, season!
- Olive oil: for frying; nice and generous… get that sizzle!
- Whipped feta ingredients:
- Feta cheese: 8 ounces; crumbled for that salty, tangy goodness…
- Cream cheese: 4 ounces; it helps to smooth everything out…
- Greek yogurt: 1/4 cup; adds a nice tang…
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons; to bring it all together…
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon; for that extra zing!
- Salt: to taste; can’t forget this little gem!
Easy How-To
Making the Meatballs
Okay, so first things first—you want to combine that ground beef and lamb in a big bowl. Then toss in the harissa, garlic, cilantro, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix it all up with your hands—seriously, it feels good… just don’t overdo it, or they’ll get tough. Then, shape them into little balls, about the size of a golf ball… they should be nice and round. Nice, right?
Cooking the Meatballs
Now, heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it gets kinda shimmery… add those meatballs—just a few at a time, so they have room to breathe. Cook ’em for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. They’ll smell amazing as they cook; you might wonder if you should’ve made more!
Preparing the Whipped Feta
Time to make that whipped feta! Toss the feta, cream cheese, and lemon juice into a food processor. Let it whirl until it’s all smooth and creamy. Seriously, this is so good—try not to eat it with a spoon before you serve it! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed—taste it, get it right.
Assembling the Dish
Alright, grab a serving platter and spread that luscious whipped feta all over it; don’t be shy. Then, place your beautiful meatballs right on top. Finally, drizzle a little more harissa sauce over everything for that wow factor. Looks good, right?
Good to Know
- Feel free to mix up the meats—chicken or turkey would work too… have fun with it!
- If you’re not into spicy, start with less harissa and adjust later—everyone likes it differently.
- Leftovers?… they make the best lunch! Just pop ’em in the fridge!
Serving Ideas
- Serve those meatballs over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa, really adds a nice touch!
Top Tricks
- Don’t skip the searing part—it adds so much flavor and a lovely crust!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonders too… and if you’re feeling adventurous, try a plant-based meat—totally a great option!
How do I store leftover meatballs?
Easy! Just pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and if you want to save them longer, stick ’em in the freezer!
Can I make the whipped feta ahead of time?
Yes, yes, yes! Make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a little stir before serving to get that nice creamy texture back.
What sides pair well with harissa meatballs?
Oh, so many options! Think fresh salads, couscous, or even roasted veggies—it’s all about balance!
Is harissa spicy?
Harissa can range from mild to super spicy, so taste it before adding to your meatballs… feel free to adjust based on your love for spice!
Conclusion
So, there you have it! These harissa meatballs with whipped feta are a delightful dish that just brings all those amazing flavors together. Whether it’s a dinner party or a simple weeknight meal, they’re always a hit! It’s all about mixing the spicy with creamy and pairing it with delicious sides—your taste buds will thank you!
More Recipes Suggestions and Combination
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This fresh and vibrant salad adds a healthy touch and pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the meatballs… it’s like a party on your plate!
Roasted Vegetable Medley
Seasonal roasted veggies are a must—they bring a burst of color and flavor that just complements the dish beautifully.
Pita Bread and Hummus
Serve with warm pita and some tasty dips like hummus; it makes for a shareable, fun platter that everyone will enjoy!
Couscous with Lemon and Herbs
A light, fluffy couscous tossed with herbs and lemon juice is just the perfect accompaniment…
Spicy Yogurt Sauce
A drizzle of tangy, spicy yogurt sauce takes this dish to another level of flavor… trust me, you’ll want it!
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette adds a nice peppery crunch… such a good contrast to the richness of the meatballs!
