Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. These meatballs, nestled in a vibrant three-pepper sauce, bring together the rich flavors of ground beef and the sweet, slightly smoky essence of bell peppers. Each bite promises a burst of color, texture, and mouthwatering goodness that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Tri-Pepper Sauce
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 400g (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic or red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked (or sweet) paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the Meatballs Using your hands, shape the meat mixture into medium-sized, uniform meatballs. Place them on a plate and set aside.
- Cook the Meatballs Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Tri-Pepper Sauce In the same skillet, sauté minced onion and garlic until soft and translucent. Add the colorful bell pepper strips and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Build the Sauce Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce Gently return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the pepper sauce. Cover and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.
Nutrition and Serving
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
Why This Pepper Meatball Dish is a Nutritional Powerhouse
This recipe is more than just a delicious meal – it’s a nutritional treasure. The colorful bell peppers are packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, while the variety of vegetables adds fiber and micronutrients. The combination of smoked paprika and fresh herbs not only enhances flavor but also offers potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with crusty bread, rice, or a light salad to complete this vibrant and satisfying meal.