Zucchini Meatball Skewers

In recent years, skewers have surged in popularity, becoming a go-to option for outdoor barbecues, family gatherings, and even weeknight dinners. Their versatility allows for endless combinations of ingredients, making them suitable for almost any palate or dietary preference. Among the myriad of skewer options, Zesty Zucchini Meatball Skewers stand out as a particularly healthy and flavorful choice. These skewers blend the satisfying texture of meatballs with the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also balanced.

Discover the deliciousness of Zesty Zucchini Meatball Skewers, a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. These skewers feature juicy meatballs made with lean protein and fresh zucchini, making them an enticing and healthy dish for any occasion. Ideal for barbecues, family dinners, or a nutritious snack, these skewers pack a punch with vibrant veggies and aromatic seasonings. Elevate your meal with unique presentation ideas and complementary dipping sauces for a delightful dining experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground turkey (or substitute ground beef if preferred)

1 medium zucchini, grated, with excess moisture squeezed out

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 large egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Skewers:

1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks

1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks

1 small red onion, cut into wedges

1 cup whole cherry tomatoes

Olive oil (for drizzling)

Skewers (use metal skewers or soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground turkey, grated zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkling of salt and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Form the Meatballs:

- With your hands, shape the mixture into bite-sized meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Bake the Meatballs:

- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and have a nice golden brown color on the outside.

Prepare the Skewers:

- While the meatballs are baking, prepare your skewers. Begin threading the meatballs onto the skewers, alternating with the chunks of red and yellow bell peppers, red onion wedges, and cherry tomatoes. Be sure to leave a little space between each ingredient to allow for even cooking.

Drizzle with Olive Oil:

- Once the skewers are assembled, lightly drizzle them with olive oil and add a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.

Grill the Skewers (optional):

- For a smoky finish, preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the vegetables are tender and exhibit a slight char.

Serve:

- Serve the warm zucchini meatball skewers alongside your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, tzatziki, or garlic aioli for a delicious complement.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

30 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 4-6

Presentation Tips:

Arrange the skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Offer dipping sauces in small bowls for easy access and an appealing display!