Recipe for Genoese Pesto Meatballs: A Tastier Main Dish Than Ever
Genoese Pesto Meatballs are a delicious and aromatic dish that will win over all taste buds, from the youngest to the most experienced. The combination of ground meat and the famous Genoese pesto creates a perfect balance of flavors, ideal for a special lunch or dinner. Additionally, this recipe is easy to prepare and takes only 40 minutes. Let’s see how to make it step by step!
Ingredients for 4 people:
- Ground meat: 500g
- Genoese pesto: 60g
- White wine: 1 glass
- Egg: 1
- Stale bread: 80g
- Flour: as needed
- Extra virgin olive oil: as needed
- Grated Parmesan: as needed
Preparation of Genoese Pesto Meatballs
The preparation of these m eatballs is really simple, but the final result is irresistible. First, soften the stale bread with a bit of milk and squeeze it well. In a large bowl, place the ground meat and, after loosening it with a fork, add the egg and grated Parmesan.
Mix everything well, and once you have a smooth dough, add the Genoese pesto. The pesto will give the meatballs that rich and aromatic flavor that makes them unique. Keep mixing until the mass is well combined.
Next, add the softened and squeezed bread and continue working the dough until it is firm. You can start with a fork and then use your hands for better control of the consistency. At this point, take a small amount of dough and form medium or small-sized m eatballs, depending on your preference.
Finally, roll the meatballs in flour, making sure to remove any excess, before proceeding with cooking.
Cooking the Meatballs
To cook the meatballs, heat a non-stick pan with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. When the oil is hot, start browning the meatballs, turning them gently with a wooden spoon to brown them evenly on all sides.
Once the meatballs are well browned, deglaze with white wine. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook over moderate heat for about 15 minutes. After this time, remove the lid and let the meatballs dry for a couple of minutes to get a slightly crispy crust.
Tips for Variations and Customizations
This recipe is extremely versatile! You can make beef meatballs or, for a vegetarian version, chickpea meatballs. If you want a touch of freshness, add some grated lemon zest to the dough. Alternatively, you can enrich the pesto with a handful of toasted pine nuts for an even richer flavor.
In conclusion, Genoese Pesto M eatballs are a dish that can be prepared in no time but offers a unique taste experience. This recipe is perfect for a family lunch, a dinner with friends, or even as an appetizer for special occasions. Experiment with variations and personalize the dish according to your tastes. Bon appétit!
