Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Cilantro Lime Turkey Meatballs aren't just another recipe—they're a tantalizing journey of Thai-inspired flavors that will transport you straight to street food paradise. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs bursting with zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and a creamy, rich peanut sauce that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results that are surprisingly simple to create.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lime zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the meatballs from sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, lime zest, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using your hands or a spoon, mix the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use a cookie scoop or your hands to form meatballs about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the meatballs warm, drizzled with the peanut sauce, and garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy your Cilantro Lime Turkey Meatballs with Peanut Sauce as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a salad!
Tips
- Keep your hands slightly wet when forming meatballs to prevent the mixture from sticking.
- Don't overwork the meat mixture—mix just until ingredients are combined to keep meatballs tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting your breadcrumbs lightly before mixing them into the meat.
- If the peanut sauce is too thick, thin it with a little warm water or chicken broth.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- These meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
