Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic dish? Say hello to Vegan Chicken Piccata Meatballs! These scrumptious little bites are packed with flavor and are sure to impress even the most devoted meat lovers. With a perfect blend of chickpeas, zesty capers, and a hint of lemon, this recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also keeps things plant-based and healthy. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a dish that's not only easy to make but also bursting with bold flavors. Get ready to elevate your dinner game and discover how to create these irresistible meatballs that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup chickpeas, mashed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tbsp capers, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the chickpeas until they form a slightly chunky paste-like consistency.
- Add breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, chopped capers, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Fold in chopped fresh parsley, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Using clean hands, form the mixture into uniform small meatballs, approximately 1-inch in diameter. Aim to create about 12-16 meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place meatballs into the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook meatballs for 3-4 minutes on each side, rotating gently to achieve a golden-brown exterior and ensure even cooking.
- Once meatballs are browned, slowly pour vegetable broth into the skillet. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing meatballs to absorb flavors and become tender.
- Remove meatballs from skillet and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Mash Your Chickpeas: For the best texture, mash your chickpeas until they're slightly chunky. This will help the meatballs hold together without being too smooth.
- Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mixture. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, while dried oregano or thyme can enhance the flavor profile.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking the meatballs, make sure to give them enough space in the skillet. This ensures they brown evenly and don’t steam.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the vegetable broth for the full 10-12 minutes. This step is crucial for letting them absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the dish. Consider serving with a side of pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
