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Cilantro-Lime Turkey Meatballs with Rice and Lime

Cilantro-Lime Turkey Meatballs with Rice and Lime
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Cilantro-Lime Turkey Meatballs with Rice and Lime is a fresh, zesty, and nutritious dish that combines lean turkey meatballs infused with bright cilantro and tangy lime. Served over fluffy white or brown rice with an extra squeeze of lime, this meal is vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Rice

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice

Garnishes and Extras

  • Extra chopped fresh cilantro
  • Extra lime wedges for squeezing
  • Olive oil drizzle or light yogurt sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook the white or brown rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender to serve as a base for the meatballs.
  2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine ground turkey, finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic, diced onion, lime zest, fresh lime juice, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly but avoid overworking the mixture to keep meatballs tender.
  3. Form the Meatballs: Shape the turkey mixture into small, uniform meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter to ensure even cooking.
  4. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs carefully and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Place warm cooked rice on serving plates, top with the cooked meatballs, garnish with extra chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately with optional olive oil drizzle or yogurt sauce for added freshness.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the turkey mixture to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
  • Use fresh lime zest and juice for the best citrus flavor punch.
  • Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon for uniform meatballs, promoting even cooking.
  • Let meatballs rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
  • Cook rice ahead of time to reduce dinner prep stress.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cilantro lime, turkey meatballs, healthy meatballs, quick dinner, gluten free, lean protein, zesty meatballs, easy recipe

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/cilantro-lime-turkey-meatballs-with-rice-and-lime/