Savory Flavory Meatballs

Ingredients

• 1 lb extra lean ground beef (can use ground pork or turkey as well)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed, and finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4-6 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrot, washed and peeled, and finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1 slice whole wheat bread, processed into crumbs
• 1/4 cup wheat germ
• 1 tablespoon dried basil, 2 tbsp if fresh and minced
• 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tbsp if fresh and minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• canola oil cooking spray (if baking)

OPTIONAL

If making sauce

• 1 cup fresh water
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1 dash basil
• 1 dash oregano
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons garlic oil or grapeseed oil or extra virgin olive oil

Directions

1. 1

   In large bowl combine meat, vegetables and spices, mush with hands or fork. Mix well.

2. 2

   Add wheat germ, bread crumbs, egg, continue to mix.

3. 3

   For baking, line 1 1/2" to 2" rolled meatballs on lightly oiled baking sheet, leaving 1" to 2" between each meatball.

4. 4

   Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, flip the meatballs and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. There will be liquid that forms around the meatballs.

5. 5

   For pan frying, place meatballs in oiled fry pan.

6. 6

   Dissolve cornstarch in a little cold water or veggie broth and add all liquids to pan.

7. 7

   Simmer on medium for 20 minutes, turning occasional to prevent burning.

8. 8

   Sauce will thicken as it cooks.

9. 9

   If desired, serve with rice or pasta.

10. 10

    Enjoy!