Italian-style Grilled Meatballs

Ingredients

Italian-style grilled meatballs differ from the original Romanian Mititei in terms of seasoning and cooking method. While Mititei are typically seasoned with a combination of garlic, thyme, and paprika, Italian-style meatballs incorporate Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley. Additionally, Mititei are usually pan-fried or grilled, whereas Italian-style meatballs are specifically grilled to achieve a smoky flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Mititei, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 250g (0.55 lb) ground pork 250g (0.55 lb) ground pork
• 250g (0.55 lb) ground veal 250g (0.55 lb) ground veal
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil, for brushing Olive oil, for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, pork, and veal.
2. 2.
   Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
3. 3.
   Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. 4.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
5. 5.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
6. 6.
   Brush the meatballs with olive oil to prevent sticking.
7. 7.
   Place the meatballs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
8. 8.
   Remove the meatballs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef, pork, and veal — Ensure the meat is well-chilled before mixing to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Fresh herbs — Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by half.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
• Serve the meatballs with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Serving advice

Serve the Italian-style grilled meatballs as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. They can also be enjoyed as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy serving.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled meatballs on a platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an attractive presentation. Serve them alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping.