If you’re looking for a bold, nutritious dinner that’s big on flavor and packed with protein, this recipe for Spicy Harissa Lamb Meatballs with Mint Yogurt and Quinoa is sure to hit the mark. This Mediterranean-inspired dish brings together the heat of harissa, the richness of ground lamb, the cool freshness of mint yogurt, and the nutty taste of quinoa. It’s a balanced meal that’s great for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
What Are Harissa Lamb Meatballs?
Harissa lamb meatballs are made with ground lamb combined with harissa paste, a North African chili paste bursting with spices like cumin, coriander, and caraway. These meatballs are then roasted or pan-fried until browned on the outside and juicy inside. They’re served with a cool mint yogurt sauce to balance the heat and a side of fluffy protein-rich quinoa.
Health Benefits and Nutrition Information
Why Lamb?
Lamb is a great source of high-quality protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 — all of which contribute to energy levels, healthy muscles, and a strong immune system.
The Power of Yogurt
Yogurt, especially the plain Greek kind used here, supports gut health due to its probiotics and gives you a good dose of calcium and protein. Mint adds freshness and helps soothe digestion.
Why Choose Quinoa?
Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that’s packed with fiber and contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. It’s perfect for people who want to increase their protein intake while keeping meals balanced and plant-friendly.
Precautions
Those sensitive to spicy food may want to adjust the amount of harissa paste used. Also, while lamb is nutritious, it’s higher in saturated fat than some other meats, so portion control is key.
Spicy Harissa Lamb Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Mint Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Quinoa:
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve. Add it to a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water or broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, harissa paste, spices, garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon—don’t overmix, or the meatballs may become tough. Roll the mixture into 1.5-inch balls. You should get about 16 meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Mix the Mint Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped mint, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Serve the meatballs over a bed of quinoa and drizzle or dollop with mint yogurt sauce. Garnish with additional fresh mint or cilantro for extra flavor. A side salad with greens and cucumber also pairs well with this dish.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
This dish is great on its own but can also be served with hummus, grilled vegetables, or a warm pita for a complete Mediterranean-inspired plate. To store leftovers, keep the quinoa, meatballs, and mint yogurt in separate containers in the fridge. They will keep for up to 4 days. Reheat the meatballs and quinoa in the microwave or a skillet. The yogurt sauce is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating.
Conclusion
Spicy Harissa Lamb Meatballs with Mint Yogurt and Quinoa is more than just a flavorful dish—it’s a nutrient-rich, satisfying meal that supports a healthy and active lifestyle. Whether you’re meal prepping or making dinner for the family, you’ll appreciate the mix of bold spices, protein, and freshness that this recipe delivers.
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