Herby Turkey Meatballs with Lemon Orzo

These turkey meatballs cook in the same skillet as the lemon orzo, so the pasta picks up the pan's savory flavor. Shape the meatballs evenly and check the center of a large one with a thermometer before serving.

Serves: 4
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, plus more to finish
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup dry orzo
• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method

1. In a bowl, combine the turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined and shape into 16 small meatballs.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large lidded skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs for 5 to 6 minutes, turning to color several sides. Transfer them to a plate; they do not need to be cooked through yet.
3. Add the orzo and lemon zest to the skillet. Stir for 1 minute, then pour in the stock and scrape up browned bits from the pan.
4. Return the meatballs and any juices to the skillet. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 8 minutes.
5. Stir in the peas, cover again, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Check that the orzo is tender and the center of a large meatball reaches 165°F. If needed, add a splash of stock, cover, and continue cooking, checking again.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and additional parsley. Let stand for 2 minutes before serving.

Variations

Use ground chicken in place of turkey, checking for the same 165°F internal temperature. Replace peas with chopped spinach and stir it in at the end. Add extra stock if you prefer the orzo looser.

Storage and reheating

Refrigerate leftovers promptly in a covered container and use within 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of stock or water until steaming throughout.

Pair this with the work-from-home lunch planning guide for next-day portions, or the weekly meal planning guide for a flexible dinner slot. Plan the meal in Lucru Home.