Time-Saving Tips for Making Meatballs Salad Using Modern Kitchen Tools

Instant Pot for Juicy, Tender Meatballs in Minutes

Add a cup of broth or water to the Instant Pot, place the meatballs on a trivet or steamer rack, and cook on high pressure for just 5-7 minutes. The Instant Pot will cook the meatballs evenly and keep them juicy.

Air Fryer for Crispy Meatballs Without the Mess

The Air Fryer is the perfect tool for getting crispy meatballs without deep frying. After forming your meatballs, lightly coat them in olive oil or cooking spray and air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Slow Cooker for Hands-Off Meatball Cooking

Place your uncooked meatballs into the slow cooker along with some marinara sauce or broth. Set it on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooking method infuses the meatballs with flavor and ensures they remain tender.

Tips and Suggestions on Meatballs Salad

Choose lean meats

Use lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken to make meatballs. This reduces the fat content while still offering a hearty flavor.

Season with fresh herbs

Add fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or oregano to your meatball mixture for added flavor and aroma that complements your salad.

Use breadcrumbs for texture

Incorporating breadcrumbs helps keep the meatballs tender and adds texture. For a healthier alternative, try whole wheat breadcrumbs or oats.

Pair with a tangy dressing

A tangy dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette or a lemony yogurt dressing, will balance the richness of the meatballs and brighten up the salad.

Incorporate vegetables

Roast or grill vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to add more color and texture to your salad, creating a well-rounded dish.

Serve with greens

Pair the meatballs with a variety of leafy greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed lettuce for a fresh and vibrant salad that complements the rich meatballs.

Classic Meatballs Salad Recipe

                        Ingredients
                        1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
2 tbsp minced onion
2 cloves minced garlic
1 egg
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
4 cups mixed greens
1/2 cup sliced red onion
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup sliced cucumber
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

                    

                        Instructions
                        Preheat your oven to 400°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, seasoned breadcrumbs, minced onion,
                                minced garlic, egg, Cajun seasoning, and salt. Mix everything together until well
                                combined.
Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them onto a baking sheet. Bake for
                                20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the salad by combining the mixed greens, sliced
                                red onions, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and chopped cilantro in a large salad
                                bowl.
In a small jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, honey,
                                salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Add the cooked meatballs to the salad mixture and drizzle the dressing over the top.
                                Toss everything together until the meatballs are evenly coated with the dressing.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Meatball Salad with Cajun Sauce!

                    

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 20 min

Cook Time 30 min

Total time 50 min

                        Nutrition Facts
                        Calories: 423
Total Fat: 29g
Total Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 11g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 540mg

                    

Meatballs Salad