Spanish Meatballs With Artichokes And Greens

By Marcus Braid on December 24, 2015 in

The combination of smoky paprika and roasted capsicum add some Spanish flair to these simple meatballs. Serve them on artichokes, green beans and spinach instead of pasta or rice for a lighter dinner that’s just as deliciously satisfying – olé!

Ingredients:

2 garlic cloves
1 red onion
200g green beans
170g jar artichokes in brine
100g roasted capsicum
300g beef meatballs
Spanish meatball spice mix (2 tsp smoked paprika + ½ tsp ground bay leaves)
400g tomato passata (puree)
200g baby spinach
40g toasted almonds
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper

Cooking time: 30 mins

1. Prepare ingredients – Finely chop the garlic and onion. Trim the bean tops. Drain the artichokes and halve or quarter if large. Drain the roast capsicum, then cut into 1cm pieces.

2. Cook meatballs – Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook the meatballs for 5 minutes or until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook sauce – Decrease heat to medium. Add the onion, garlic and spice mix and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring, until softened. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in passata and capsicum, then return meatballs and cook over medium-low heat for a further 5 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse.

4. Cook beans – Meanwhile, bring 60ml (1/4 cup) water to the boil in a medium frying pan over high heat. Cook the beans for 1 minute or until just tender and bright green, then drain and transfer to a bowl.

5. Finish cooking vegetables – Wipe the medium frying pan dry and return to medium-high with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the spinach and cook for 1 minute or until wilted. Stir in the artichokes and beans then season with salt and pepper.

6. Get ready to serve – Meanwhile, slice the toasted almonds. Divide the greens between bowls and top with the meatball mixture. Scatter with almonds to serve.

Every Marley Spoon meal takes around 30 minutes to prepare, in only six steps. These meals can be delivered to your door, with all the ingredients you need, in minimal, recyclable packaging. With a cooking hotline for any questions about the recipe, the only thing you’ll have simmering is your delicious dinner. Marley Spoon is available across Sydney now, and meals start from $9.99. Visit www.marleyspoon.com.au.