Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Organic Red Pesto
SHORT DESCRIPTION
A delicious vegetarian twist on classic Italian meatballs, made with tender potatoes, protein-rich lentils and fresh parsley. Simmered in a rich tomato and organic red pesto sauce, these flavour-packed veggie meatballs make a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect served with pasta or crusty bread.
DESCRIPTION
- Prepare the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a saucepan of boiling water and cook until tender. Drain, allow to cool slightly, peel and mash with a fork until smooth.
- Prepare the lentils: Place the cooked lentils in a food processor with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and the fresh parsley. Blend until combined.
- Make the veggie meatballs: Transfer the lentil mixture to a bowl. Add the mashed potatoes and egg, then mix everything together until well combined. Shape the mixture into small, walnut-sized balls.
- Prepare the sauce: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened.
- Add the pesto: Stir in the tomato and basil sauce and organic red pesto. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for approximately 2 minutes.
- Cook the meatballs: Carefully add the veggie meatballs to the sauce. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, gently turning them occasionally so they are coated in the sauce. Add a splash of water or vegetable stock if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Serve: Finish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot. Enjoy with pasta, crusty bread or your favourite side dishes!
Serving suggestion: Serve with your favourite pasta or crusty sourdough bread to soak up the delicious tomato and red pesto sauce.
Make it extra flavourful: Add a little extra organic red pesto to the sauce for a richer Mediterranean-inspired flavour.
Handle with care: The veggie meatballs are delicate, so turn them gently while simmering to help keep their shape.
Prep time: Approximately 15 minutes
Cook time: Approximately 30 minutes
Serves: 2 people
INGREDIENTS
- 2 medium potatoes
- 150g cooked Organic Lentils
- 1 egg
- Fresh parsley, to taste
- Organic Olive Oil Extra Virgin, as needed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 150ml Organic Tomato Puree sauce
- 80g Organic Sundried Tomato Pesto
- Fresh basil, to garnish