Air-Fried Turkey Meatballs (Diabetic-Friendly Dinner)
Air-fried turkey meatballs are a delicious, healthy dinner option perfect for those managing diabetes. Lean turkey provides high-quality protein while keeping the dish low in fat, and the air fryer ensures they come out crispy on the outside while juicy on the inside.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Portions: 4
Glycemic Index (GI): 30 (Low)
Glycemic Load (GL): 5 (Low)
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and whole-wheat breadcrumbs. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the Meatballs:
- Shape Meatballs: Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This size ensures even cooking.
- Refrigerate: Place the meatballs on a plate or baking sheet and let them rest in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry: Arrange the meatballs in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for fully cooked meatballs.
- Prepare Side Dishes:
- Zoodles with Marinara Sauce: Spiralize zucchinis to create zoodles. Lightly sauté them in a non-stick pan with a bit of olive oil until tender. Toss with low-sugar marinara sauce and top with the turkey meatballs.
- Steamed Green Beans: Steam green beans until tender but still crisp. Season with sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Assemble the Plate:
- Serve the air-fried turkey meatballs over a bed of zoodles with marinara sauce, alongside a portion of steamed green beans for a balanced and nutritious meal.
Enjoy these tender, flavorful turkey meatballs for a dinner that supports your health goals while being delicious and satisfying!