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Flavorful Nye Snacks Turkey Meatball Dinner Bowl Easy Recipe with Lemony Kale

turkey meatball dinner bowl - featured image

A quick and easy turkey meatball dinner bowl featuring juicy turkey meatballs paired with bright, tangy lemony kale, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey (preferably lean but not too dry)
  • ½ cup (50 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
  • 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped (about 6 cups/150 g)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing kale)
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Cooked brown rice, quinoa, or couscous (about 2 cups/400 g cooked)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: Crumbled feta or a dollop of Greek yogurt (for creaminess)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, egg, grated Parmesan, finely grated onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into roughly 1½-inch meatballs, about 16 total. Place on a plate or tray.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove and drain on paper towels.
  4. In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp olive oil and warm over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add chopped kale and stir to coat. Cook for 4-5 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon juice and zest. Stir to combine.
  6. Assemble bowls by spooning cooked brown rice, quinoa, or couscous into bowls. Top with turkey meatballs and lemony kale. Garnish with fresh herbs and optional feta or Greek yogurt.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough meatballs. Use grated onion to keep meatballs juicy. Cook meatballs in batches to avoid steaming. Lower heat and cover skillet if meatballs brown too quickly but are not cooked through. Lemon zest in kale is essential for balancing richness. For gluten-free, substitute panko with almond flour or gluten-free crumbs. Baking meatballs at 400°F for 15-20 minutes is a good alternative to pan-frying.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey meatballs, lemony kale, dinner bowl, quick recipe, healthy dinner, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free option