Lentil meatballs made with simple ingredients and bold flavor. Moreover, they’re healthy, vegan, and perfect for pasta or subs.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4)
- 1½ cups cooked lentils (brown or green)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or oats
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2½ tbsp water (flax egg)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
🔪 Preparing the Lentil Mixture
First, mash the cooked lentils in a bowl, leaving some texture.
Then, add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, flax egg, oil, and spices.
Afterward, mix until the mixture holds together.
Finally, rest the mixture for 10 minutes.
🍳 Shaping & Cooking the Meatballs
To begin, preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
Next, shape the mixture into small balls.
Then, place on a lined baking tray.
After that, bake for 22–25 minutes, turning halfway.
(Optional: Pan-fry for extra crispiness.)
⭐ Tips for Perfect Lentil Meatballs
- Firstly, drain lentils well to avoid sogginess.
- Moreover, chill the mixture before shaping for firmer balls.
- Additionally, bake instead of fry for a lighter version.
- Finally, serve with warm sauce.
🔄 Variations to Try
- Italian-Style: Add oregano and basil
- Spicy: Add chili flakes
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs
- Protein Boost: Add hemp seeds
- Cheesy: Add vegan parmesan
💚 Health Benefits
Lentils provide plant protein, iron, and fiber.
Moreover, they support digestion and heart health.
Because these meatballs are plant-based, they are cholesterol-free.
As a result, they’re a nutritious alternative to meat.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Version
- Use mild seasoning
- Make smaller meatballs
- Serve with tomato sauce
- Pair with spaghetti or mashed potatoes
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
