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Mediterranean-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Mediterranean-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Recipe Date:
January 17, 2025
Serving Size:
4
Cook Time:
00:45:00
Difficulty:
Medium
Measurements:
Imperial (US)
Looking for a hearty meal to complement a bold, fruit-forward wine from California’s Central Coast? Our Mediterranean-Style Meatballs in Tomato Sauce pairs beautifully with the lively acidity of our Nebbiolo. Explore recipes and buy Sanger Family wines online for a true Solvang wine tasting experience at home.
Ingredients
  • 1 lb balf lamb/half beef (grass-fed)
  • 1/2 cup Whole Wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsps Marianello Lucca Extra Virgin olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp honey
Directions
Instructions

1. Combine Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Combine gently without overworking the mixture.

2. Shape the Meatballs
Form the mixture into meatballs, roughly 1½ inches in diameter. Set them aside on a plate.

3. Brown the Meatballs
Heat the Lucca Extra Virgin Olive Oil  in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 6-8 minutes in total. Transfer them to a clean plate while you prepare the sauce.

4. Sauté Onions & Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and the sugar or honey (if desired). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Simmer & Finish
Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let everything simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.

6. Serve & Enjoy
Spoon the meatballs and sauce over couscous, rice, pasta, or serve them with crusty bread. Garnish with a bit more fresh parsley for extra color and flavor.

Pairing Tip:
These hearty, flavorful meatballs are an excellent match for our Nebbiolo—the wine’s bright acidity and layered fruit notes beautifully complement the tangy tomato sauce and savory spices. Enjoy!