If you’re looking for a healthy appetizer to serve at upcoming holiday gatherings, Chris Disney, managing partner of Picazzo’s Italian Kitchen, shares a recipe for turkey meatballs. These delightful orbs can be served as an appetizer or main dish, Disney says.

As an appetizer, Disney suggests 2-3 meatballs per person. He recommends using a chafing dish to keep the meatballs warm, and to add sauce so the meat won’t dry out. “A good marinara is perfect, either homemade, or if you want to save some time, a store-bought marinara like Rao’s would also go well.”

For a main dish, plan on 4-5 meatballs per person and pair with spaghetti or linguine, he says. “Add a fresh salad and a bottle of wine and dinner is served.”

Mama’s Meat-Za Balls

Ingredients

2 lbs. ground turkey
2 eggs
2 tbsp. dried oregano
2 tbsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper
2 tbsp. bread crumbs
2 tbsp. minced garlic
2 tbsp. sunflower oil
2 tbsp. dried parsley
2 tbsp. diced fresh basil
2 tbsp. fresh herbs (blend of very finely minced rosemary and thyme)

Directions

1. Gently mix all ingredients in a mixing bowl by hand until even throughout the meat.
2. Use spoon to create even portions and roll into balls by hand.
3. Place meatballs on non-stick sprayed sheet pan and bake at 550 degrees for about 10 minutes
4. Remove from oven and cover with marinara. Bake for about 8-10 more minutes.
5. Garnish with basil.
6. Serve with focaccia/bread.