That’s Some Meatball

Here’s a great recipe for Meatless Mondays—or any day.

True, there is no meat in these meatballs but you’ll hardly miss it with Jersey Fresh eggplant standing in as a healthier option. For a video of recipe prep for this dish, visit https://findjerseyfresh.com/JerseyFresh/recipes/eggplant-meatballs 

Eggplant Meatballs

15m prep / 85m cook time

1 large Jersey Fresh eggplant (about 1 lb.)

1 large Jersey Fresh egg, lightly beaten

1/2 cup canned cannellini (other white beans such as navy can work), rinsed and smashed with a fork

1 large clove Jersey Fresh garlic, finely chopped or pressed through a garlic press

1/4 cup Jersey Fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup Jersey Fresh basil, finely chopped

1/2 cup Pecorino Romano or Parmesan, finely grated, plus extra for sprinkling

1 tsp. Kosher salt

½ tsp. pepper

1 cup panko-style breadcrumbs

Nonstick cooking spray

2 cups Jersey Fresh marinara sauce such as Ethnic Cottage, Mia Cucina, The Jersey Tomato Co (visit the Made with Jersey Fresh page for options)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place eggplant on top. Using a fork, prick the eggplant on all sides. Roast at for 45 minutes or until a paring knife easily slips into the center. 

Cool for 20 minutes, then slice in half lengthwise and scoop out all of the insides of the eggplant (discard the skin) and place in a medium bowl. Stir in the egg and cannellini beans. Add garlic, basil, parsley, parmesan, salt and pepper. Mix until combined. Add breadcrumbs and mix until fully combined.

Line another rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly mist with cooking spray. Using an ice cream scoop or your hands. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form into a ball with your hands. We got 12.

Place on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray meatballs. Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown and firm.

While meatballs are cooking, warm your favorite Jersey Fresh marinara sauce and cook pasta or prepare rolls.

Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and parsley, if preferred.