Boulettes Grecques & Orzo Citronné avec Crème de Feta
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Savor the taste of Greece with these delicious Boulettes Grecques paired with zesty Orzo Citronné and a creamy Feta sauce. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, this dish is a wonderful blend of Mediterranean flavors that your family will love. It's ideal for a cozy dinner or a delightful weekend gathering, offering a healthy and satisfying option for soup season.
This dish brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. With the perfect balance of spices and the refreshing taste of lemon in the orzo, it's a dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
A Taste of Greece
Greece is renowned for its vibrant culinary culture, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors come together to create dishes that are as nutritious as they are delicious. With our Boulettes Grecques & Orzo Citronné, you can enjoy the authentic tastes of Greece right in your own kitchen. These Greek meatballs offer a savory profile, enriched by aromatic herbs and spices, while the zesty Orzo Citronné serves as a delightful accompaniment, elevating the meal with its citrusy brightness.
The combination of hearty meatballs and refreshing orzo not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a satisfying, wholesome meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a cozy dinner with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress with its Mediterranean charm.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
Each component of this recipe is designed to deliver not just flavor but also numerous health benefits. The ground meat serves as an excellent source of protein, providing the necessary nutrients for muscle growth and repair. When choosing lamb or lean beef, you ensure a flavorful yet healthy base for your meal. Meanwhile, the fresh parsley not only adds color to the dish but also offers a dose of vitamins A, C, and K, making each bite nutritious.
Orzo, a small pasta, is versatile and cooks quickly, making it an ideal base for many dishes. This pasta is enriched with carbohydrates, providing the energy you need to fuel your day. The incorporation of lemon in the Orzo Citronné brings a refreshing acidity, known for its antioxidant properties and ability to boost the immune system. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that can be enjoyed guilt-free.
Ingredients
Boulettes Grecques
- 500g ground meat (lamb or beef)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Orzo Citronné
- 200g orzo pasta
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Crème de Feta
- 200g feta cheese
- 100g Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Black pepper to taste
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting.
Instructions
Prepare the Boulettes
In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into meatballs.
Cook the Boulettes
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 15 minutes.
Cook the Orzo
In a pot, bring water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Crème de Feta
In a blender, combine feta cheese, yogurt, olive oil, garlic, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve
Mix the cooked orzo with lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Serve the boulettes on a bed of orzo and drizzle with the feta sauce.
Enjoy your meal with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite spices to the meatballs for a personalized touch.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To achieve the best texture for your Boulettes Grecques, ensure that the ground meat is well-seasoned. A common mistake is to under-season, which can result in bland flavors. Don’t hesitate to add more herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences, and remember that frying the meatballs in a hot pan will help them brown beautifully.
When cooking the orzo, make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and always reserve a cup of pasta cooking water. This starchy water can help create a silky sauce when mixed with your lemon juice and olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your dining experience by serving the Boulettes Grecques & Orzo Citronné with a fresh side salad. A simple cucumber and tomato salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar pairs wonderfully, adding a crunchy contrast to the creamy Feta sauce. For a true Greek experience, consider adding olives and pita bread on the side for scooping up the delicious sauce.
This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed throughout the year, whether as a hearty weeknight dinner or as part of a festive gathering. Don’t hesitate to get creative by adding seasonal vegetables to the orzo for added nutrition and color.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other meats for the boulettes?
Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can replace the meat with lentils or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Boulettes Grecques & Orzo Citronné avec Crème de Feta
Savor the taste of Greece with these delicious Boulettes Grecques paired with zesty Orzo Citronné and a creamy Feta sauce. Perfectly seasoned and easy to prepare, this dish is a wonderful blend of Mediterranean flavors that your family will love. It's ideal for a cozy dinner or a delightful weekend gathering, offering a healthy and satisfying option for soup season.
What You'll Need
Boulettes Grecques
- 500g ground meat (lamb or beef)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Orzo Citronné
- 200g orzo pasta
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Crème de Feta
- 200g feta cheese
- 100g Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Black pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into meatballs.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 15 minutes.
In a pot, bring water to a boil and cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a blender, combine feta cheese, yogurt, olive oil, garlic, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Mix the cooked orzo with lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Serve the boulettes on a bed of orzo and drizzle with the feta sauce.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite spices to the meatballs for a personalized touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fats: 15g