Description
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both flavour-packed and wholesome, this Spiced Turkey Meatballs & Quinoa is your answer. Ground turkey brings lean protein, while quinoa adds texture, nutty taste and whole-grain goodness. The meatballs are infused with warm spices – cumin, smoked paprika, coriander and a touch of cayenne – giving them a subtle kick. These are served over softly cooked quinoa with a hint of turmeric (or curry powder if you like), and finished off with fresh herbs, lemon wedges and creamy herbed Greek yogurt (if you like).
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450 g) ground turkey (lean preferred)
1 small onion, finely grated or minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or cooked quinoa for gluten-free)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Quinoa:
1 cup quinoa, rinsed
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp turmeric or curry powder (optional, for color & flavor)
Salt to taste
Optional Toppings / Sauce:
Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice & chopped herbs
Fresh chopped mint, parsley, or cilantro
Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add rinsed quinoa and toast for 1 minute.
Add broth and turmeric/curry powder (if using).
Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, and all spices.
Mix gently until just combined — do not overwork the meat.
Roll mixture into 1-inch balls (about 16–18 total).
3. Cook the Meatballs
Option 1 – Pan-Fry:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add meatballs and cook, turning often, until browned and cooked through (8–10 minutes).
Option 2 – Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
4. Serve
Serve meatballs over a bed of quinoa.
Add a dollop of herbed yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
These spiced turkey meatballs pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber yogurt sauce. For extra flavor, drizzle with a touch of lemon juice or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking & Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
Keywords: Spiced Turkey Meatballs & Quinoa