Orzo Greek Meatballs (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Meatballs

01 - 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
02 - 1 egg
03 - 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
04 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
05 - 1 teaspoon oregano (dried)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
07 - 1/3 cup panko crumbs
08 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 3 tablespoons grated onion
10 - 1 garlic clove, minced or grated
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
12 - A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper
13 - 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese
14 - Zest of a lemon
15 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
16 - 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Orzo

17 - 1 tablespoon parsley, fresh and chopped
18 - 1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives
19 - 1 garlic clove, grated or minced
20 - 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
21 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
22 - 2 teaspoons olive oil
23 - 1/2 cup diced roasted red peppers
24 - 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
25 - A pinch of kosher salt and black pepper for seasoning
26 - Extra crumbled feta cheese for serving
27 - 2 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth

# Instructions:

01 - Dump all the things for the meatballs in a bowl, then use your hands to gently mix until combined. Don’t overdo it. Rub your hands with some oil to keep from sticking, grab about a tablespoon of the mix, and roll it into little balls. Place ’em on a plate.
02 - Heat up a large pan on medium-high heat with about a tablespoon of olive oil. Swirl it around to coat the bottom. Add the rolled meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping often to get that golden color all over. Set them aside on a clean plate, cover with some foil, and leave ’em be.
03 - If your skillet is messy, give it a quick wipe. Add the olive oil, garlic, and orzo to the pan on medium heat. Toss them around for a bit, like a minute. Next, pour in the broth, roasted peppers, and some fresh lemon juice. Stir it up, then bring it all to a boil.
04 - Let the orzo simmer for 7-8 minutes until it’s soft, giving it a stir here and there so it doesn’t stick. Toss in the olives and chopped fresh herbs once it’s done. Place those cooked meatballs on top, sprinkle some extra feta and herbs over everything, and you’re good to go!