I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s bursting with flavor: Minty Pesto Lamb Meatballs with Dirty Rice. This dish combines the robust flavors of lamb with the fresh, vibrant notes of mint pesto, all served over a bed of savory dirty rice. It’s a perfect blend of Mediterranean and Southern culinary traditions that will take your taste buds on a delightful journey.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from my love for experimenting with bold flavors and unique combinations. The lamb meatballs are tender and juicy, while the mint pesto adds a refreshing twist. Paired with the hearty dirty rice, this dish is both satisfying and delicious. Ready to create this flavor-packed feast?
Let’s gather our ingredients and get started!
Minty Pesto Lamb Meatballs with Dirty Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup mint pesto recipe below
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
Mint Pesto
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Dirty Rice
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1/2 lb ground pork or sausage
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mint Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh mint leaves, basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and garlic. Process until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, and 1/4 cup of the mint pesto. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
- Prepare the Dirty Rice: In the same skillet, add the ground pork or sausage and cook until browned. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the rice, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Serve and Garnish: Fluff the dirty rice with a fork and transfer to a serving platter. Top with the minty pesto lamb meatballs. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
- Make the mint pesto ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper to the dirty rice.
- Leftover meatballs can be used in sandwiches or served with pasta.
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Bringing It All Together:
So, there you have it – Minty Pesto Lamb Meatballs with Dirty Rice, a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It’s a wonderful way to explore bold flavors and create a delicious meal for your family and friends. If you have any questions or need adjustments for dietary needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. I love hearing from you all and helping you create delicious memories in your kitchen.
