Meatballs In Lemon Sauce (Greek Keftedes)

Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these Greek Keftedes, also known as meatballs in lemon sauce. Bursting with flavor and simple to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Great flavors: The combination of ground pork and beef, along with aromatic herbs and spices, creates a taste sensation that is hard to resist.
2. Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have these meatballs ready to serve in no time.
3. Perfect for meal prep: These meatballs are great for meal prepping ahead of time and can easily be reheated for a quick and tasty meal.

Ingredient Notes:

For The Meatballs:

• Olive oil: Adds richness and flavor to the meatballs.
• Ground pork and lean ground beef: Provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
• Crustless bread: Helps to keep the meatballs moist and tender.
• White wine: Adds a depth of flavor to the meatballs.
• Onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper: Infuse the meatballs with delicious Greek flavors.

For The Sauce:

• Butter, all-purpose flour, hot water or stock, and lemon juice: Create a creamy and tangy sauce to drizzle over the meatballs.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, egg, bread, white wine, onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add hot water or stock, stirring constantly until thickened.
5. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the meatballs drizzled with the lemon sauce and sprinkle with extra oregano.

Helpful Tips:

1. For a lighter version, you can bake the meatballs in the oven instead of frying them.
2. Make a double batch and freeze the cooked meatballs for a quick meal on busy days.
3. Serve the meatballs with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use a mix of ground pork and beef for the best flavor and texture.
2. Be sure to mince the onion and garlic finely to ensure even distribution of flavor.
3. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried herbs for a more vibrant taste.

Serving Suggestions:

These meatballs in lemon sauce are delicious served over rice or pasta. Pair them with a side of roasted vegetables or a Greek salad for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade would be the perfect beverage to accompany this dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork and beef?
   Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey for the pork and beef if you prefer a lighter option.
2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them?
   Absolutely! Shape the meatballs and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
3. Can I use store-bought lemon sauce instead of making my own?
   While store-bought lemon sauce can be used in a pinch, making your own sauce from scratch will give you the best flavor and control over the ingredients.

Conclusion:

These meatballs in lemon sauce are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Enjoy!

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