Craving a lighter, healthier take on classic Italian comfort food? Look no further than this recipe for Steamed Meatball Linguine! Forget greasy frying – our method uses steaming to create incredibly tender, juicy meatballs packed with flavor, while still maintaining a satisfyingly hearty texture. This dish avoids excess oil and heavy sauces, offering a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated yet simple gathering. The vibrant, fresh taste of the linguine perfectly complements the delicate meatballs, creating a balanced and delicious meal.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the perfectly seasoned meatballs to achieving the ideal al dente texture for your pasta. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- frying pan
- plates
- pot for boiling water
Ingredients
- Pork and Beef: 250g
- Stale Bread: 100g
- Salt
- Pepper
- Chili
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Parsley
- Olive Oil
- Linguine: 400g
- Rocket
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Steam the Meatballs
- Combine 250g of pork and beef, 100g of soaked stale bread, salt, pepper, chili, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a bowl. Mix well using your hands.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of cherry tomatoes.
- Place the meatballs on a plate, then another plate on top. Pour boiling water underneath to steam the meatballs for 30-35 minutes.
Step 2. Cook the Linguine
- Cook 400g of linguine according to package directions.
Step 3. Sauté and Combine
- Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in a frying pan with a drizzle of olive oil to coat them.
- Combine the cooked linguine and meatballs.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve the linguine and meatballs on a warm plate. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with rocket.
Read more: One-Pan Cod with Potatoes: Authentic Italian Recipe
Tips
- Steaming the meatballs keeps them moist and healthy.
- Use stale bread for the best results.
- Don't overcook the linguine.
- Garnish with fresh rocket for a delicious and healthy touch.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different pasta than linguine?
Absolutely! Spaghetti, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta would work well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How can I make the meatballs vegetarian or vegan?
Replace the ground beef with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and breadcrumbs for a vegetarian option. For vegan, use a plant-based ground meat substitute.
3. Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and steam the meatballs a day in advance and reheat them gently before serving with the linguine.
This Steamed Meatball Linguine recipe proves that healthy eating doesn't have to compromise on flavor or satisfaction. Enjoy this lighter, yet incredibly flavorful Italian dish as a guilt-free treat any time. Buon appetito!