Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta

These Harissa Meatballs with Whipped Feta are perfect for an easy SOS dinner! Store-bought meatballs, bell peppers, zucchini, harissa, and whipped feta all in one bowl.

Ingredients for the harissa meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef and lamb)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon harissa paste (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• Olive oil for cooking

Ingredients for the whipped feta:

• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, harissa paste, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg. Mix well using your hands until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet, in batches if necessary, and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned. This will help sear the meatballs and give them a nice crust.
5. Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the whipped feta. In a food processor or blender, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy.
7. Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly.
8. Serve the harissa meatballs with the whipped feta on the side for dipping or drizzled over the top.
9. Optionally, garnish with additional chopped parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Enjoy the harissa meatballs with whipped feta as an appetizer or as part of a main course. They pair well with pita bread, couscous, or a side salad. The combination of spicy harissa and creamy feta cheese is sure to impress your taste buds!