Tired of the same old spaghetti night? Prepare for a flavor explosion with this Easy Swordfish Meatball Spaghetti recipe! This dish elevates classic spaghetti and meatballs to a whole new level, showcasing the delicate yet firm texture of swordfish in a surprisingly delightful way. Forget tough, dry meatballs; these swordfish morsels are incredibly tender and infused with the bright, fresh taste of the Mediterranean. The vibrant sauce, bursting with herbs and a hint of lemon, perfectly complements the richness of the fish.
This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring you create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and discover a new favorite? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Pot
Ingredients
- Spaghetti
- Swordfish
- Garlic: 1 small clove
- Lemon: 1
- Breadcrumbs
- Hazelnuts
- Peppers
- Olives
- Parsley
- Eggs: 2
- Salt
- Pepper
- Anchovies: 2-5 (optional)
- Chopped Tomatoes (canned): 1 can
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Swordfish Meatballs and Cook the Pasta
- Boil salted water in a pot and cook spaghetti for 7 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine swordfish, grated garlic, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, hazelnuts, peppers, olives, parsley, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add anchovies (optional) if desired.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and refrigerate for at least an hour.
Step 2. Brown the Meatballs and Simmer the Sauce
- Cook the meatballs in a pan until browned on both sides. (About 90 seconds to 2 minutes per side)
- Add the remaining olives, parsley, capers, and canned tomatoes to the pan with the meatballs. Bring to a boil.
Step 3. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce
- Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce with the meatballs and toss to combine.
- Add a little pasta water to create a glossy sauce.
Read more: One-Pan Cod with Potatoes: Authentic Italian Recipe
Tips
- You can use different types of firm white fish like cod, tuna, or even salmon.
- The lemon zest adds a bright citrus flavor to the meatballs.
- Resting the meatballs in the fridge firms them up, making them easier to handle and cook.
- Adding a little pasta water at the end helps to emulsify the sauce and create a glossy finish.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-750
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 70-85g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the swordfish with another type of fish?
Yes, firm white fish like cod or halibut work well. Adjust cooking time as needed, as they may cook faster than swordfish.
2. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
Gently handle the mixture, don't overwork it. Ensure the breadcrumbs are finely ground and add just enough to bind the ingredients without making it too dry.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This Easy Swordfish Meatball Spaghetti recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a unique twist on a classic comfort food. The combination of tender swordfish meatballs and a vibrant tomato sauce creates a truly memorable dining experience. Enjoy this delicious and surprisingly simple dish, and don't forget to share it with your friends and family!